🌿 Montelukast 4 mg + Levocetirizine 2.5 mg Tablet

Combination Therapy for Allergic Rhinitis & Asthma Support

🔍 Overview

Montelukast 4 mg + Levocetirizine 2.5 mg is a fixed-dose combination medication commonly prescribed for allergic rhinitis, seasonal allergies, and mild asthma symptoms. This dual-action tablet helps control allergy symptoms and inflammation by combining an antihistamine (Levocetirizine) with a leukotriene receptor antagonist (Montelukast).

💊 Ingredients & Mechanism of Action

• Montelukast (4 mg):
  A leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks substances (leukotrienes) responsible for inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus production in asthma and allergic rhinitis.

• Levocetirizine (2.5 mg):
  A third-generation antihistamine (R-enantiomer of cetirizine) that blocks histamine H1 receptors, reducing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and itching.

📌 How to Use

• Dosage: Usually taken once daily, preferably in the evening.

• Route: Oral, with or without food.

• Pediatric Use: Often prescribed in this lower dose (4 mg/2.5 mg) for children aged 2–6 years, depending on weight and condition severity.

• Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double dose.

✅ Common Indications

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever)

• Perennial allergic rhinitis

• Mild to moderate asthma

• Chronic urticaria (off-label)

⚠️ Common Side Effects

• Headache

• Drowsiness or fatigue

• Dry mouth

• Abdominal pain

• Diarrhea or nausea

• Cough

🚨 Serious Side Effects (Rare but Critical)

• Behavioral changes (e.g., aggression, anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts – mostly linked to Montelukast)

• Severe allergic reactions: rash, itching/swelling (especially of face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing

• Seizures

• Palpitations or chest pain

Seek immediate medical attention if any of the above occur.

🩺 Monitoring & Follow-Up

• Initial Assessment: Evaluate allergy/asthma symptoms and possible drug interactions.

• Ongoing Monitoring:

  • Behavioral or mood changes (especially in pediatric patients)

  • Symptom control effectiveness

  • Liver function in rare long-term use

• Patient Follow-Up: Every 4–6 weeks initially, then periodically based on response.

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

• Neuropsychiatric Events: Montelukast may rarely cause mood swings, aggression, depression, or suicidal ideation. Monitor closely.

• Sedation Risk: Levocetirizine may cause drowsiness; avoid alcohol and sedatives.

• Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be required for Levocetirizine.

• Liver Disease: Use Montelukast cautiously in hepatic impairment.

• Allergy to Components: Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to either ingredient.

📝 Summary

Montelukast 4 mg + Levocetirizine 2.5 mg tablets offer dual benefits for patients with allergic rhinitis and mild asthma. While generally safe and well-tolerated, the combination requires attention to behavioral side effects and potential sedation. Regular follow-ups and awareness of symptoms are essential for safe use, particularly in children.

Always follow your doctor’s advice, dosage instructions, and never self-medicate.