Montelukast's main purpose is to treat and prevent asthma. It helps manage asthma by reducing symptoms and preventing acute asthma attacks.
How Montelukast Works
Montelukast belongs to a class of medications called leukotriene receptor antagonists. These medicines work by:
- Blocking Leukotrienes: Leukotrienes are substances in the body that cause inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to asthma symptoms. Montelukast blocks the action of these substances.
- Reducing Inflammation: By blocking leukotrienes, montelukast reduces inflammation in the airways.
- Opening Airways: This reduction in inflammation leads to a relaxation of the airways, making breathing easier.
- Preventing Attacks: As a result of the above effects, montelukast helps prevent asthma attacks from occurring.
Important Points to Consider
It's crucial to understand that:
- Montelukast is not for treating acute asthma attacks that have already started. It's primarily a preventative medication.
- For sudden asthma attacks, other medications like quick-relief inhalers are necessary.
- This medicine works to control and prevent asthma symptoms by controlling the inflammation in the airways.
- Regular use as prescribed by a doctor is important for managing asthma effectively.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Use | Treat and prevent asthma. |
| Mechanism | Blocks leukotrienes, reducing inflammation and opening airways. |
| Benefit | Decreases symptoms and the number of acute asthma attacks. |
| Important Note | Not for relieving an asthma attack that has already started. |
The reference information from 31-Jan-2024 confirms that "Montelukast is used to treat and prevent asthma. It will decrease the symptoms and the number of acute asthma attacks. However, this medicine should not be used to relieve an asthma attack that has already started."
