No, studies suggest montelukast may actually lower blood pressure.
Understanding Montelukast and Blood Pressure
Montelukast, commonly known by the brand name Singulair, is a medication primarily used to treat asthma and allergies. While some anecdotal evidence suggests a potential link to increased blood pressure, research indicates a different outcome. A study found that using montelukast or zafirlukast (another similar medication) was associated with lower systolic blood pressure (SBP). This finding was consistent even after adjusting for factors like age, sex, existing hypertension, and other health conditions. [^1, ^2] This doesn't mean montelukast always lowers blood pressure, but the available evidence doesn't support a claim that it raises it.
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Study Results: A statistically significant association was found between the use of montelukast or zafirlukast and a reduction in SBP (β [95% confidence interval]: −2.50 [−4.79, −0.20]).[^1, ^2]
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Important Note: While studies suggest a blood pressure lowering effect, it's crucial to consult a doctor. Individual responses to medications vary. Always report any changes in blood pressure to your healthcare provider.
Potential for Interaction and Misinterpretation
It's important to differentiate between a direct effect of montelukast on blood pressure and possible confounding factors. Reports of increased blood pressure while taking montelukast might be due to other medications, underlying health conditions, or coincidental occurrences. For example, a case of medication mix-up highlights the potential for erroneous conclusions. A situation where montelukast tablets were mistakenly filled with losartan (a blood pressure medication) emphasizes the importance of accurate medication dispensing and monitoring.[^3]
It is also important to note that while one study found a correlation between montelukast and lower blood pressure, this does not imply causation. Further research is required to fully understand this relationship.
Additional Information:
- Medical websites often state that montelukast does not typically cause weight gain or increased blood pressure.[^4]
- Always consult with a doctor before starting or stopping any medication, including montelukast.
[^1]: Leukotriene Antagonist Use is Associated With Lower Systolic Blood Pressure: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9939346/
[^2]: Montelukast or zafirlukast use was associated with lower SBP after adjustment for age, sex, race, diabetes status, hypertension, body mass index, eGFR, urine ACR, use of antihypertensive medications and serum C-reactive protein (β [95% confidence interval]: −2.50 [−4.79, −0.20]).
[^3]: HEALTH ALERT - Montelukast 10mg Bottles Filled with Losartan 50mg. https://hsc.unm.edu/news/news/health-alert.html
[^4]: Montelukast oral tablet: Side effects, uses, dosage, and more. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-montelukast-oral-tablet
