Yes, montelukast can cause high cholesterol, although it is considered a rare adverse drug reaction.
While montelukast is primarily known as a leukotriene receptor antagonist used for asthma and allergy treatment, a very rare side effect involving elevated cholesterol levels has been documented.
Montelukast and Hypercholesterolemia:
A case report described an instance where a patient taking oral montelukast developed:
- Acute pancreatitis
- Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol)
- Severe hypertriglyceridemia (high triglycerides)
This case highlights that while uncommon, montelukast can be associated with high cholesterol levels. The good news is that the symptoms, including the high cholesterol, resolved once the medication was discontinued.
Understanding the Connection:
Although the precise mechanism by which montelukast can cause high cholesterol is not fully understood, this case study suggests that it is a potential, albeit very rare, adverse effect.
| Condition | Status | Association with Montelukast |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Pancreatitis | Present | Rare Adverse Effect |
| Hypercholesterolemia | Present | Rare Adverse Effect |
| Hypertriglyceridemia | Present | Rare Adverse Effect |
Key Points:
- Rarity: This is not a common side effect of montelukast.
- Reversibility: The elevated cholesterol levels resolved after stopping the medication, indicating a direct link.
- Monitoring: Patients should be aware of potential symptoms, and reporting any unusual changes to their healthcare provider is crucial.
In summary, while not a typical side effect, montelukast has been documented in rare cases to cause high cholesterol levels, along with other conditions like acute pancreatitis and severe hypertriglyceridemia. Discontinuation of the drug resolved these symptoms in the reported case.
