MONTE-AIR®:Uses, Safety,Instructions And Side Effects

MONTE-AIR® is a widely used medication in South Africa for treating asthma and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It contains the active ingredient montelukast sodium and comes in various strengths and forms to cater to both children and adults.

This comprehensive guide is designed to help you understand MONTE-AIR, including its uses, how to take it, possible side effects, precautions, and much more, in clear and simple language.

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What Is it Used For?

MONTE-AIR is used to treat and prevent the following conditions:

1. Asthma

• Controls chronic asthma symptoms.
• Prevents wheezing, difficulty breathing, and nighttime symptoms.
• Helps patients who are not fully controlled with other asthma medications.

2. Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)

• Relieves symptoms caused by seasonal allergens (e.g., pollen).
• Also effective for perennial allergies (e.g., dust mites, pets).

3. Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB)

• Prevents airway narrowing triggered by physical activity (ages 15+).

Note: MONTE-AIR is not a rescue medication and cannot treat sudden asthma attacks.

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How Does MONTE-AIR® Work?

Montelukast blocks substances called leukotrienes in the lungs and nose. These chemicals cause inflammation, swelling, and mucus buildup that can lead to asthma and allergy symptoms.

By blocking leukotrienes, MONTE-AIR:

• Keeps airways open.
• Reduces inflammation.
• Prevents asthma symptoms and allergic reactions.

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Available Forms and Strengths

MONTE-AIR is available in different forms tailored for various age groups:

Formulation	Strength	Age Group	Administration Method
Sprinkles (oral granules)	4 mg	6 months – 5 years	Mix with soft food or baby formula
Chewable Tablet	4 mg	2 – 5 years	Chewed before swallowing
Chewable Tablet	5 mg	6 – 14 years	Chewed before swallowing
Film-Coated Tablet	10 mg	15 years and older	Swallowed whole with water

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Who Should Take it ?

MONTE-AIR is suitable for:

• Children 6 months and older with asthma or allergies.
• Adults and teenagers managing long-term asthma.
• Individuals with seasonal or year-round allergic rhinitis.
• People who experience breathing problems during or after exercise.

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Who Should NOT Take

Avoid MONTE-AIR if you:

• Are allergic to montelukast or any ingredient in the product.
• Are already using another montelukast-containing medication.

Consult your doctor before use if you:

• Have liver disease.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Take other medications.
• Have mental health concerns or mood disorders.

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How to Take MONTE-AIR®

1. When to Take It

• For asthma: take in the evening.
• For allergies: take once daily (any time).
• For exercise-induced asthma: take 10 mg 2 hours before exercising.

2. How to Take Each Form

Form	How to Take
Tablet (10 mg)	Swallow whole with water.
Chewable	Chew completely before swallowing.
Sprinkles	Mix with soft food and give immediately.

3. With or Without Food?

• Can be taken with or without food.

4. Missed Dose

• Skip missed dose and continue as normal.
• Do not double dose.

5. Overdose

• Seek medical help immediately if too much is taken.

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Side Effects of MONTE-AIR®

Common Side Effects

Symptom	Description
Headache	Most common, often mild
Stomach pain	Upset tummy or mild cramps
Sore throat	Especially during allergy season
Diarrhea	Seen more in young children
Fever	Temporary, especially in children
Skin rash	Mild irritation or redness

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Help)

Symptom	What to Look Out For
Behavioral changes	Aggression, anxiety, depression
Suicidal thoughts/actions	Unusual mental health changes
Allergic reaction	Swelling, difficulty breathing, rash
Hallucinations	Seeing/hearing things that aren’t real
Liver issues	Yellow skin/eyes, dark urine, tiredness

Notify your doctor if any unusual symptoms occur.

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Behavior and Mental Health Warnings

Caution is advised due to potential neuropsychiatric side effects:

• Mood swings
• Aggression or irritability
• Nightmares or sleepwalking
• Depression or suicidal thoughts

Parents should monitor children closely. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if any concerning behavior develops.

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Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor if you use:

• Phenobarbital (seizures)
• Rifampicin (tuberculosis)
• Other asthma medications

These may reduce MONTE-AIR’s effectiveness.

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Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and MONTE-AIR®

• Use during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary.
• Consult your doctor if breastfeeding.

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Driving and Machine Use

• MONTE-AIR typically does not affect alertness.
• If you feel dizzy or drowsy, avoid driving or using machines.

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Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C.
• Keep in original packaging.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after expiry date.
• Return unused medicine to your pharmacist.

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Product Appearance and Packaging

Form	Description
4 mg Sprinkles	Sachet with white powder
4 mg Chewable	Pink, square, fruit-flavored
5 mg Chewable	Pink, round, fruit-flavored
10 mg Tablet	Beige, round, film-coated tablet

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Manufacturer Information

• Produced by: Cipla Medpro (Pty) Ltd
• Address: 1474 South Coast Road, Mobeni, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is MONTE-AIR a steroid?

No, it is a leukotriene receptor blocker, not a steroid.

2. Can I stop MONTE-AIR suddenly?

Yes, but only with your doctor’s advice.

3. Can MONTE-AIR be used long-term?

Yes, it is safe for long-term use under medical supervision.

4. Can babies take MONTE-AIR?

Yes, babies from 6 months can take the 4 mg Sprinkles form.

5. Does MONTE-AIR make you sleepy?

Drowsiness is rare, but if it occurs, avoid driving.

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Conclusion

MONTE-AIR® is a valuable treatment option for asthma and allergic rhinitis across all age groups. It helps prevent breathing difficulties, allergy symptoms, and exercise-related asthma when taken regularly and correctly. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, and report any unusual side effects promptly.

For any concerns, contact your doctor or pharmacist .