Doctors prescribe montelukast primarily to help manage and prevent asthma symptoms.
How Montelukast Works
Montelukast is a medication that works by addressing the underlying cause of airway narrowing in asthma. Here's a breakdown of its function:
- Reduces Inflammation: Montelukast helps to stop your airways from narrowing (caused by inflammation). This is crucial because inflammation is a key component of asthma that leads to breathing difficulties.
- Opens Airways: By reducing inflammation, montelukast helps open up the airways, making it easier to breathe.
- Prevents Asthma Attacks: Regular use of montelukast can prevent asthma attacks from occurring. This is why it's important to take it even when you are not experiencing any symptoms.
Key Uses of Montelukast
Montelukast is primarily used for the following reasons:
- Asthma Management: This is the primary use for montelukast, helping to control and prevent asthma symptoms.
- Preventative Care: Montelukast is typically taken daily as a preventive measure, even when symptoms are absent, to keep airways open and inflammation controlled.
Important Points about Montelukast Use
- Daily Dosage: It is usually taken once a day in the evening.
- Consistent Use: For asthma management, it's vital to take montelukast regularly, even when you feel well.
- Preventive Medication: Montelukast is not intended for treating acute asthma attacks. You will need other medications, like inhalers, for immediate relief during an attack.
Summary
| Purpose | Description |
|---|---|
| Asthma Management | Helps to manage and prevent asthma symptoms by reducing airway inflammation. |
| Preventative | Taken daily to prevent asthma attacks, even when symptoms are not present. |
| Airway Relaxation | Works by reducing inflammation that causes airways to narrow, thus improving breathing. |
| Dosage | Typically taken once a day in the evening. |
Montelukast provides long-term control over asthma by reducing airway inflammation, making it easier to breathe and preventing asthma attacks.
