Montelukast Sodium 4 mg Granule, 30-count
🆔 Identity & classification
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🏷️ RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist class.
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🏭 Manufacturer & labeler
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🩺 Clinical
Montelukast is used to prevent wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and coughing caused by asthma in adults and children 12 months of age and older. Montelukast is also used to prevent bronchospasm (breathing difficulties) during exercise in adults and children 6 years of age and older. Montelukast is also used to treat the symptoms of seasonal (occurs only at certain times of the year), allergic rhinitis (a condition associated with sneezing and stuffy, runny or itchy nose) in adults and children 2 years of age and older, and perennial (occurs all year round) allergic rhinitis in...
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- It does more than just treat allergies. Montelukast is used to help prevent and control asthma on a daily basis, to prevent breathing problems triggered by exercise, and to relieve...
- What is montelukast actually used for — is it just for allergies?
- This is a real and important concern — the FDA has placed its strongest warning on montelukast because of reported mental health side effects. These can include mood changes, agita...
- I heard montelukast can affect your mood. Should I be worried?
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Supplement & herbal interactions
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🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
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IACT rows and label-wide narrative are kept separate; availability and product-level specificity depend on the submitted label.Inactive ingredient FAQ
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💲 Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per ea | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | $0.891 | $26.73 / 30 granule |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | $1.12 | $33.58 / 30 granule |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 | $1.69 | $50.62 / 30 granule |
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🔁 Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montelukast Sodium 4 mg/500mg 13668-0531-94 | Torrent | 30 packets | $0.891 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Montelukast Sodium 4 mg 27241-0015-31 | Ajanta | 30 granules | $0.891 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Montelukast Sodium 4 mgthis 59651-0329-30 | Aurobindo | 30 granules | $0.891 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Singulair 4 mg 78206-0171-01 | Organon | 30 granules | — | — | FDA listed | — |
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⏳ Availability & generic status
This product is an FDA-approved generic. Other versions of the same drug are listed under Therapeutic equivalents, least expensive first.
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🗺️ Medicaid utilization & spend
📊 Medicare Part D spend CMS · PART D · 2026 (Q1)
🔬 Reported adverse events (FAERS)
Top reported reactions
Age at onset
Reporter sex
Serious outcomes
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📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 59651-0329-30 You're viewing this | 30 PACKET in 1 CARTON (59651-329-30) / 1 GRANULE in 1 PACKET (59651-329-05) | 2020-02-18 | Active |
📄 Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🚨 Boxed Warning ▾
WARNING: SERIOUS NEUROPSYCHIATRIC EVENTS Serious neuropsychiatric (NP) events have been reported with the use of montelukast sodium. The types of events reported were highly variable, and included, but were not limited to, agitation, aggression, depression, sleep disturbances, suicidal thoughts and behavior (including suicide). The mechanisms underlying NP events associated with montelukast sodium use are currently not well understood [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .
Because of the risk of NP events, the benefits of montelukast sodium may not outweigh the risks in some patients, particularly when the symptoms of disease may be mild and adequately treated with alternative therapies. Reserve use of montelukast sodium for patients with allergic rhinitis who have an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies [see Indications and Usage (1.3) ] . In patients with asthma or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, consider the benefits and risks before prescribing montelukast sodium.
Discuss the benefits and risks of montelukast sodium with patients and caregivers when prescribing montelukast sodium. Advise patients and/or caregivers to be alert for changes in behavior or new NP symptoms when taking montelukast sodium. If changes in behavior are observed, or if new NP symptoms or suicidal thoughts and/or behavior occur, advise patients to discontinue montelukast sodium and contact a healthcare provider immediately [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .
WARNING: SERIOUS NEUROPSYCHIATRIC EVENTS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Serious neuropsychiatric events have been reported in patients taking montelukast sodium ( 5.1 ). Discuss benefits and risks of montelukast sodium with patients and caregivers ( 5.1 ).
Monitor for neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients taking montelukast sodium ( 5.1 ). Discontinue montelukast sodium immediately if neuropsychiatric symptoms occur ( 5.1 ). Because the benefits of montelukast sodium may not outweigh the potential risk of neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with allergic rhinitis, reserve use for patients who have an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies ( 1.3 , 5.1 ).
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Montelukast sodium is a leukotriene receptor antagonist indicated for: Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in patients 12 months of age and older ( 1.1 ). Relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR): seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) in patients 2 years of age and older, and perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) in patients 6 months of age and older. Reserve use for patients who have an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies ( 1.3 ).
Limitations of Use: Not indicated to treat an acute asthma attack ( 5.2 ).
1.1Asthma Montelukast sodium oral granules are indicated for the prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in pediatric patients 12 months of age and older.
1.3Allergic Rhinitis Montelukast sodium oral granules are indicated for the relief of symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients 2 years of age and older and perennial allergic rhinitis in patients 6 months of age and older. Because the benefits of montelukast sodium oral granules may not outweigh the risk of neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with allergic rhinitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] , reserve use for patients who have an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies.
1.4Limitations of Use Montelukast sodium oral granules are not indicated for the treatment of an acute asthma attack.
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Administration (by indications): Asthma: Once daily in the evening for patients 12 months and older ( 2.1 ). Seasonal allergic rhinitis: Once daily for patients 2 years and older (2.3) . Perennial allergic rhinitis: Once daily for patients 6 months and older (2.3) .
Dosage (by age): 2 to 5 years: one packet of 4 mg oral granules (2) . 6 to 23 months: one packet of 4 mg oral granules (2) . Patients with both asthma and allergic rhinitis should take only one dose daily in the evening (2.4) .
For oral granules: Must administer within 15 minutes after opening the packet (with or without mixing with food) (2.5) .
2.1Asthma For asthma, administer montelukast sodium oral granules orally once daily in the evening, with or without food. There have been no clinical trials in patients with asthma to evaluate the relative efficacy of morning versus evening dosing. The following doses are recommended: Table 1: Recommended Dosage in Asthma * Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients less than 12 months of age with asthma have not been established.
Age Dose Pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age one packet of 4 mg oral granules Pediatric patients 12 to 23 months of age* one packet 4 mg oral granules Patients who miss a dose should take the next dose at their regular time and should not take 2 doses at the same time.
2.3Allergic Rhinitis For allergic rhinitis, administer montelukast sodium oral granules orally once daily without regard to time of food ingestion. Time of administration in patients with allergic rhinitis can be individualized to suit patient needs. The following doses for the treatment of symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis are recommended: Table 3: Recommended Dosage in Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis * Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients younger than 2 years of age with seasonal allergic rhinitis have not been established.
Age Dose Pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age* one packet of 4 mg oral granules The following doses for the treatment of symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis are recommended: Table 4: Recommended Dosage in Perennial Allergic Rhinitis * Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients younger than 6 months of age with perennial allergic rhinitis have not been established. Age Dose Pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age one packet of 4 mg oral granules Pediatric patients 6 to 23 months of age * one packet of 4 mg oral granules Patients who miss a dose should take the next dose at their regular time and should not take 2 doses at the same time.
2.4Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis For patients with both asthma and allergic rhinitis, administer only one montelukast sodium dose orally once daily in the evening. Patients who miss a dose should take the next dose at their regular time and should not take 2 doses at the same time.
2.5Instructions for Administration of Oral Granules Montelukast sodium 4 mg oral granules can be administered either directly in the mouth, dissolved in 1 teaspoonful (5 mL) of cold or room temperature baby formula or breast milk, or mixed with a spoonful of cold or room temperature soft foods; based on stability studies, only applesauce, carrots, rice, or ice cream should be used. The packet should not be opened until ready to use. After opening the packet, the full dose (with or without mixing with baby formula, breast milk, or food) must be administered within 15 minutes.
If mixed with baby formula, breast milk, or food, montelukast sodium oral granules must not be stored for future use. Discard any unused portion. Montelukast sodium oral granules are not intended to be dissolved in any liquid other than baby formula or breast milk for administration.
However, liquids may be taken subsequent to administration. Montelukast sodium oral granules can be administered without regard to the time of meals.
💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths ▾
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Montelukast Sodium Oral Granules USP, 4 mg are white to off white granules with 500 mg net weight, packed in a child-resistant foil packet. Oral granules: 4 mg ( 3 )
⛔ Contraindications ▾
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Montelukast sodium oral granules are contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to any of its components. Hypersensitivity to any component of montelukast sodium oral granules ( 4 ).
⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ▾
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Do not prescribe montelukast sodium to treat an acute asthma attack ( 5.2 ). Advise patients to have appropriate rescue medication available ( 5.2 ). Inhaled corticosteroid may be reduced gradually.
Do not abruptly substitute montelukast sodium for inhaled or oral corticosteroids ( 5.3 ). Patients with known aspirin sensitivity should continue to avoid aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents while taking montelukast sodium ( 5.4 ). Systemic eosinophilia, sometimes presenting with clinical features of vasculitis consistent with Churg-Strauss syndrome, has been reported.
These events have been sometimes associated with the reduction of oral corticosteroid therapy ( 5.5 and 6.2 ).
5.1Neuropsychiatric Events Serious neuropsychiatric (NP) events have been reported with use of montelukast sodium. These postmarketing reports have been highly variable and included, but were not limited to, agitation, aggressive behavior or hostility, anxiousness, depression, disorientation, disturbance in attention, dream abnormalities, dysphemia (stuttering), hallucinations, insomnia, irritability, memory impairment, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, restlessness, somnambulism, suicidal thoughts and behavior (including suicide), tic, and tremor.
NP events have been reported in adult, adolescent, and pediatric patients with and without a previous history of psychiatric disorder. NP events have been reported mostly during montelukast sodium treatment, but some were reported after montelukast sodium discontinuation. Animal studies showed that montelukast distributes into the brain in rats [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] ; however, the mechanisms underlying montelukast sodium-associated NP events are currently not well understood.
Based upon the available data, it is difficult to identify risk factors for or quantify the risk of NP events with montelukast sodium use. Because of the risk of NP events, the benefits of montelukast sodium may not outweigh the risks in some patients, particularly when the symptoms of disease may be mild and adequately treated with alternative therapies. Reserve use of montelukast sodium for patients with allergic rhinitis who have an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies [see Indications and Usage (1.3) ] .
In patients with asthma or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, consider the benefits and risks before prescribing montelukast sodium. Discuss the benefits and risks of montelukast sodium use with patients and caregivers when prescribing montelukast sodium. Advise patients and/or caregivers to be alert for changes in behavior or for new NP symptoms when taking montelukast sodium.
If changes in behavior are observed, or if new NP symptoms or suicidal thoughts and/or behavior occur, advise patients to discontinue montelukast sodium and contact a healthcare provider immediately. In many cases, symptoms resolved after stopping montelukast sodium therapy; however, in some cases symptoms persisted after discontinuation of montelukast sodium. Therefore, continue to monitor and provide supportive care until symptoms resolve.
Re-evaluate the benefits and risks of restarting treatment with montelukast sodium if such events occur .
5.2Acute Asthma Montelukast sodium is not indicated for use in the reversal of bronchospasm in acute asthma attacks, including status asthmaticus. Patients should be advised to have appropriate rescue medication available. Therapy with montelukast sodium can be continued during acute exacerbations of asthma. Patients who have exacerbations of asthma after exercise should have available for rescue a short-acting inhaled β-agonist.
5.3Concomitant Corticosteroid Use While the dose of inhaled corticosteroid may be reduced gradually under medical supervision, montelukast sodium should not be abruptly substituted for inhaled or oral corticosteroids.
5.4Aspirin Sensitivity Patients with known aspirin sensitivity should continue avoidance of aspirin…
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Neuropsychiatric Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and greater than placebo listed in descending order of frequency): upper respiratory infection, fever, headache, pharyngitis, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea, otitis media, influenza, rhinorrhea, sinusitis, otitis ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. at 1-866-850-2876 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. In the following description of clinical trials experience, adverse reactions are listed regardless of causality assessment. The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and greater than placebo; listed in descending order of frequency) in controlled clinical trials were: upper respiratory infection, fever, headache, pharyngitis, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea, otitis media, influenza, rhinorrhea, sinusitis, otitis.
Adults and Adolescents 15 Years of Age and Older with Asthma Montelukast sodium has been evaluated for safety in approximately 2950 adult and adolescent patients 15 years of age and older in clinical trials. In placebo-controlled clinical trials, the following adverse reactions reported with montelukast sodium occurred in greater than or equal to 1% of patients and at an incidence greater than that in patients treated with placebo: Table 5: Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥1% of Patients with an Incidence Greater than that in Patients Treated with Placebo * Number of patients tested (montelukast sodium and placebo, respectively): ALT and AST, 1935, 1170; pyuria, 1924, 1159.
Montelukast 10 mg/day (%) (n=1955) Placebo (%) (n=1180) Body As A Whole Pain, abdominal 2.9
2.5Asthenia/fatigue 1.8
1.2Fever 1.5
0.9Trauma 1.0
0.8Digestive System Disorders Dyspepsia 2.1
1.1Pain, dental 1.7
1.0Gastroenteritis, infectious 1.5
0.5Nervous System/Psychiatric Headache 18.4
18.1Dizziness 1.9
1.4Respiratory System Disorders Influenza 4.2
3.9Cough 2.7
2.4Congestion, nasal 1.6
1.3Skin/Skin Appendages Disorder Rash 1.6
1.2Laboratory Adverse Reactions* ALT increased 2.1
2.0AST increased 1.6
1.2Pyuria 1.0
0.9The frequency of less common adverse reactions was comparable between montelukast sodium and placebo. Cumulatively, 569 patients were treated with montelukast sodium for at least 6 months, 480 for one year, and 49 for two years in clinical trials. With prolonged treatment, the adverse reaction profile did not significantly change.
Pediatric Patients 6 to 14 Years of Age with Asthma Montelukast sodium has been evaluated for safety in 476 pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age. Cumulatively, 289 pediatric patients were treated with montelukast sodium for at least 6 months, and 241 for one year or longer in clinical trials. The safety profile of montelukast sodium in the 8-week, double-blind, pediatric efficacy trial was generally similar to the adult safety profile.
In pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age receiving montelukast sodium, the following reactions occurred with a frequency ≥2% and more frequently than in pediatric patients who received placebo: pharyngitis, influenza, fever, sinusitis, nausea, diarrhea, dyspepsia, otitis, viral infection, and laryngitis. The frequency of less common adverse reactions was comparable between montelukast sodium and placebo. With prolonged treatment, the adverse reaction profile did not significantly change.
In studies evaluating growth rate, the safety profile in these pediatric patients was consistent with the safety profile previously described for montelukast sodium. In a 56-week, double-blind st…
🔄 Drug Interactions ▾
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS No dose adjustment is needed when montelukast sodium is co-administered with theophylline, prednisone, prednisolone, oral contraceptives, fexofenadine, digoxin, warfarin, gemfibrozil, itraconazole, thyroid hormones, sedative hypnotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, benzodiazepines, decongestants, and Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme inducers [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] .
👥 Use in Specific Populations ▾
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published prospective and retrospective cohort studies over decades with montelukast use in pregnant women have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects [see Data] . In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed with oral administration of montelukast to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses approximately 100 and 110 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human daily oral dose (MRHDOD) based on AUCs [see Data].
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk Poorly or moderately controlled asthma in pregnancy increases the maternal risk of perinatal adverse outcomes such as preeclampsia and infant prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age. Data Human Data Published data from prospective and retrospective cohort studies have not identified an association with montelukast sodium use during pregnancy and major birth defects. Available studies have methodologic limitations, including small sample size, in some cases retrospective data collection, and inconsistent comparator groups.
Animal Data In embryo-fetal development studies, montelukast administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 17 in rats and 6 to 18 in rabbits) did not cause any adverse developmental effects at maternal oral doses up to 400 and 300 mg/kg/day in rats and rabbits, respectively (approximately 100 and 110 times the AUC in humans at the MRHDOD, respectively).
8.2Lactation Risk Summary A published clinical lactation study reports the presence of montelukast in human milk. Data available on the effects of the drug on infants, either directly [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] or through breast milk, do not suggest a significant risk of adverse reactions from exposure to montelukast sodium. The effects of the drug on milk production are unknown.
The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for montelukast sodium and any potential adverse reactions on the breastfed infant from montelukast sodium or from the underlying maternal condition.
8.4Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of montelukast sodium for asthma have been established in pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age. Use of montelukast sodium for this indication is supported by evidence from well-controlled studies. Safety and efficacy data in this age group are similar to those seen in adults [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology, Specific Populations (12.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.1) ] .
The effectiveness of montelukast sodium for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis in pediatric patients 2 to 14 years of age and for the treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis in pediatric patients 6 months to 14 years of age have been established and is supported by extrapolation from the demonstrated effectiveness in patients 15 years of age and older with allergic rhinitis as well as the assumption that the disease course, pathophysiology and the drug’s effect are substantially similar among these populations.
The safety of montelukast sodium 4 mg oral granules in pediatric patients 12 to 23 months of age with asthma has been demonstrated in an analysis of 172 pediatric patients, 124 of whom were treated with montelukast sodium, in a 6-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Effectiveness of montelukast sodium in this age group is extrapolated from the demonstrated effecti…
🤰 Pregnancy ▾
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published prospective and retrospective cohort studies over decades with montelukast use in pregnant women have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects [see Data] . In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed with oral administration of montelukast to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses approximately 100 and 110 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human daily oral dose (MRHDOD) based on AUCs [see Data].
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk Poorly or moderately controlled asthma in pregnancy increases the maternal risk of perinatal adverse outcomes such as preeclampsia and infant prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age. Data Human Data Published data from prospective and retrospective cohort studies have not identified an association with montelukast sodium use during pregnancy and major birth defects. Available studies have methodologic limitations, including small sample size, in some cases retrospective data collection, and inconsistent comparator groups.
Animal Data In embryo-fetal development studies, montelukast administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 17 in rats and 6 to 18 in rabbits) did not cause any adverse developmental effects at maternal oral doses up to 400 and 300 mg/kg/day in rats and rabbits, respectively (approximately 100 and 110 times the AUC in humans at the MRHDOD, respectively).
🧒 Pediatric Use ▾
8.4Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of montelukast sodium for asthma have been established in pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age. Use of montelukast sodium for this indication is supported by evidence from well-controlled studies. Safety and efficacy data in this age group are similar to those seen in adults [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology, Specific Populations (12.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.1) ] .
The effectiveness of montelukast sodium for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis in pediatric patients 2 to 14 years of age and for the treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis in pediatric patients 6 months to 14 years of age have been established and is supported by extrapolation from the demonstrated effectiveness in patients 15 years of age and older with allergic rhinitis as well as the assumption that the disease course, pathophysiology and the drug’s effect are substantially similar among these populations.
The safety of montelukast sodium 4 mg oral granules in pediatric patients 12 to 23 months of age with asthma has been demonstrated in an analysis of 172 pediatric patients, 124 of whom were treated with montelukast sodium, in a 6-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Effectiveness of montelukast sodium in this age group is extrapolated from the demonstrated effectiveness in patients 6 years of age and older with asthma based on similar mean systemic exposure (AUC), and that the disease course, pathophysiology and the drug's effect are substantially similar among these populations, supported by efficacy data from a safety trial in which efficacy was an exploratory assessment.
The safety of montelukast sodium 4 mg oral granules in pediatric patients as young as 6 months of age with perennial allergic rhinitis is supported by extrapolation from safety data obtained from studies conducted in pediatric patients 6 months to 23 months of age with asthma and from pharmacokinetic data comparing systemic exposures in patients 6 months to 23 months of age to systemic exposures in adults. The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of 12 months with asthma, 6 months with perennial allergic rhinitis have not been established.
Growth Rate in Pediatric Patients A 56-week, multi-center, double-blind, randomized, active- and placebo-controlled parallel group study was conducted to assess the effect of montelukast sodium on growth rate in 360 patients with mild asthma, aged 6 to 8 years. Treatment groups included montelukast 5 mg once daily, placebo, and beclomethasone dipropionate administered as 168 mcg twice daily with a spacer device. For each subject, a growth rate was defined as the slope of a linear regression line fit to the height measurements over 56 weeks.
The primary comparison was the difference in growth rates between montelukast sodium and placebo groups. Growth rates, expressed as least-squares (LS) mean (95% CI) in cm/year, for the montelukast sodium, placebo, and beclomethasone treatment groups were 5.67 (5.46, 5.88), 5.64 (5.42, 5.86), and 4.86 (4.64, 5.08), respectively. The differences in growth rates, expressed as least-squares (LS) mean (95% CI) in cm/year, for montelukast sodium minus placebo, beclomethasone minus placebo, and montelukast sodium minus beclomethasone treatment groups were 0.03 (-0.26, 0.31), -0.78 (-1.06, -0.49); and 0.81 (0.53, 1.09), respectively.
Growth rate (expressed as mean change in height over time) for each treatment group is shown in FIGURE 1. Figure 1: Change in Height (cm) from Randomization Visit by Scheduled Week (Treatment Group Mean ± Standard Error* of the Mean) Figure1
🧓 Geriatric Use ▾
8.5Geriatric Use Of the total number of subjects in clinical studies of montelukast, 3.5% were 65 years of age and over, and 0.4% were 75 years of age and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. The pharmacokinetic profile and the oral bioavailability of a single 10 mg oral dose of montelukast are similar in elderly and younger adults.
The plasma half-life of montelukast is slightly longer in the elderly. No dosage adjustment in the elderly is required.
🆘 Overdosage ▾
10 OVERDOSAGE No specific information is available on the treatment of overdosage with montelukast sodium. In the event of overdose, it is reasonable to employ the usual supportive measures; e.g., remove unabsorbed material from the gastrointestinal tract, employ clinical monitoring, and institute supportive therapy, if required. It is not known whether montelukast is removed by peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1Mechanism of Action The cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTC 4 , LTD 4 , LTE 4 ) are products of arachidonic acid metabolism and are released from various cells, including mast cells and eosinophils. These eicosanoids bind to cysteinyl leukotriene (CysLT) receptors. The CysLT type-1 (CysLT 1 ) receptor is found in the human airway (including airway smooth muscle cells and airway macrophages) and on other pro-inflammatory cells (including eosinophils and certain myeloid stem cells).
CysLTs have been correlated with the pathophysiology of asthma and allergic rhinitis. In asthma, leukotriene-mediated effects include airway edema, smooth muscle contraction, and altered cellular activity associated with the inflammatory process. In allergic rhinitis, CysLTs are released from the nasal mucosa after allergen exposure during both early- and late-phase reactions and are associated with symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Montelukast is an orally active compound that binds with high affinity and selectivity to the CysLT 1 receptor (in preference to other pharmacologically important airway receptors, such as the prostanoid, cholinergic, or β-adrenergic receptor). Montelukast inhibits physiologic actions of LTD 4 at the CysLT 1 receptor without any agonist activity.
12.2Pharmacodynamics Montelukast causes inhibition of airway cysteinyl leukotriene receptors as demonstrated by the ability to inhibit bronchoconstriction due to inhaled LTD 4 in asthmatics. Doses as low as 5 mg cause substantial blockage of LTD 4 -induced bronchoconstriction. In a placebo-controlled, crossover study (n=12), montelukast sodium inhibited early- and late-phase bronchoconstriction due to antigen challenge by 75% and 57%, respectively.
The effect of montelukast sodium on eosinophils in the peripheral blood was examined in clinical trials. In patients with asthma aged 2 years and older who received montelukast sodium, a decrease in mean peripheral blood eosinophil counts ranging from 9% to 15% was noted, compared with placebo, over the double-blind treatment periods. In patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis aged 15 years and older who received montelukast sodium, a mean increase of 0.2% in peripheral blood eosinophil counts was noted, compared with a mean increase of 12.5% in placebo-treated patients, over the double-blind treatment periods; this reflects a mean difference of 12.3% in favor of montelukast sodium.
The relationship between these observations and the clinical benefits of montelukast noted in the clinical trials is not known [see Clinical Studies (14) ] .
12.3Pharmacokinetics Absorption Montelukast is rapidly absorbed following oral administration. After administration of the 10 mg film-coated tablet to fasted adults, the mean peak montelukast plasma concentration (C max ) is achieved in 3 to 4 hours (T max ). The mean oral bioavailability is 64%.
The oral bioavailability and C max are not influenced by a standard meal in the morning. For the 5 mg chewable tablet, the mean C max is achieved in 2 to 2.5 hours after administration to adults in the fasted state. The mean oral bioavailability is 73% in the fasted state versus 63% when administered with a standard meal in the morning.
For the 4 mg chewable tablet, the mean C max is achieved 2 hours after administration in pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age in the fasted state. The 4 mg oral granule formulation is bioequivalent to the 4 mg chewable tablet when administered to adults in the fasted state. The co-administration of the oral granule formulation with applesauce did not have a clinically significant effect on the pharmacokinetics of montelukast.
A high fat meal in the morning did not affect the AUC of montelukast oral granules; however, the meal decreased C max by 35% and prolonged T max from 2.3 ± 1.0 hours to 6.4 ± 2.9 hours. The safety and effectiveness of montelukast sodium in patients with asthma were demonstrated in clinical trials in which the 10 mg film-coated table…
🧬 Mechanism of Action ▾
12.1Mechanism of Action The cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTC 4 , LTD 4 , LTE 4 ) are products of arachidonic acid metabolism and are released from various cells, including mast cells and eosinophils. These eicosanoids bind to cysteinyl leukotriene (CysLT) receptors. The CysLT type-1 (CysLT 1 ) receptor is found in the human airway (including airway smooth muscle cells and airway macrophages) and on other pro-inflammatory cells (including eosinophils and certain myeloid stem cells).
CysLTs have been correlated with the pathophysiology of asthma and allergic rhinitis. In asthma, leukotriene-mediated effects include airway edema, smooth muscle contraction, and altered cellular activity associated with the inflammatory process. In allergic rhinitis, CysLTs are released from the nasal mucosa after allergen exposure during both early- and late-phase reactions and are associated with symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Montelukast is an orally active compound that binds with high affinity and selectivity to the CysLT 1 receptor (in preference to other pharmacologically important airway receptors, such as the prostanoid, cholinergic, or β-adrenergic receptor). Montelukast inhibits physiologic actions of LTD 4 at the CysLT 1 receptor without any agonist activity.
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Montelukast Sodium Oral Granules USP, 4 mg are white to off white granules with 500 mg net weight, packed in a child-resistant foil packet. They are supplied as follows: Unit of use carton with 30 packets NDC 59651-329-30 Storage Store montelukast sodium 4 mg oral granules USP at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from moisture and light. Store in original package.
📋 Description ▾
11 DESCRIPTION Montelukast sodium, the active ingredient in montelukast sodium oral granules USP, is a selective and orally active leukotriene receptor antagonist that inhibits the cysteinyl leukotriene CysLT 1 receptor. Montelukast sodium is described chemically as [ R -( E )]-1-[[[1-[3-[2-(7-chloro-2-quinolinyl)ethenyl]phenyl]-3-[2-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)phenyl]propyl]thio]methyl] cyclopropaneacetic acid, monosodium salt. The molecular formula is C 35 H 35 ClNNaO 3 S, and its molecular weight is 608.18.
The structural formula is: Montelukast sodium is a hygroscopic, optically active, white or almost white powder. Montelukast sodium is soluble in water, methanol, ethanol and practically insoluble in acetonitrile. Each packet of montelukast sodium 4 mg oral granules USP contains 4.2 mg montelukast sodium USP, which is equivalent to 4 mg of montelukast.
The oral granule formulation contains the following inactive ingredients: hydroxypropyl cellulose, magnesium stearate, and mannitol. Chemical Structure
💬 Information for Patients ▾
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION For the oral granules, advise the patient and/or caregiver to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide and Instructions for Use). Advise patients about the potential risk for serious neuropsychiatric symptoms and behavioral changes with montelukast sodium use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Discuss the benefits and risks of montelukast sodium with patients when prescribing or continuing treatment with montelukast sodium [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] .
Advise patients to monitor for changes in behavior or neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients taking montelukast sodium [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Instruct patients to discontinue montelukast sodium and contact a healthcare provider immediately if changes in behavior or thinking that are not typical for the patient occur, or if the patient develops suicidal ideation or suicidal behavior [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Advise patients to take montelukast sodium daily as prescribed, even when they are asymptomatic, as well as during periods of worsening asthma, and to contact their physicians if their asthma is not well controlled.
Advise patients that oral montelukast sodium is not for the treatment of acute asthma attacks. They should have appropriate short-acting inhaled β-agonist medication available to treat asthma exacerbations. Patients who have exacerbations of asthma after exercise should be instructed to have available for rescue a short-acting inhaled β-agonist.
Daily administration of montelukast sodium for the chronic treatment of asthma has not been established to prevent acute episodes of EIB [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Advise patients to seek medical attention if short-acting inhaled bronchodilators are needed more often than usual, or if more than the maximum number of inhalations of short-acting bronchodilator treatment prescribed for a 24-hour period are needed. Instruct patients to continue other anti-asthma medications as prescribed unless instructed by a physician.
Instruct patients with known aspirin sensitivity to continue avoidance of aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents while taking montelukast sodium [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Dispense with Medication Guide available at: www.aurobindousa.com/medication-guides Distributed by: Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. 279 Princeton-Hightstown Road East Windsor, NJ 08520 Manufactured by: Aurobindo Pharma Limited Hyderabad-500 038, India Revised: 03/2021
💬 Medication Guide ▾
MEDICATION GUIDE Montelukast Sodium Oral Granules, USP (mon te loo' kast soe' dee um) What is the most important information I should know about montelukast sodium oral granules? Serious mental health problems have happened in people taking montelukast sodium oral granules or even after treatment has stopped. This can happen in people with or without a history of mental health problems.
Stop taking montelukast sodium oral granules and tell your healthcare provider right away if you or your child have any unusual changes in behavior or thinking, including any of these symptoms: agitation, including aggressive behavior or hostility attention problems bad or vivid dreams depression disorientation (confusion) feeling anxious irritability hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not really there) memory problems obsessive-compulsive symptoms restlessness sleep walking stuttering suicidal thoughts and actions (including suicide) tremor trouble sleeping uncontrolled muscle movements What are montelukast sodium oral granules?
Montelukast sodium oral granules are a prescription medicine that blocks substances in the body called leukotrienes. This may help to improve symptoms of asthma and inflammation of the lining of the nose (allergic rhinitis). Montelukast sodium oral granules does not contain a steroid.
Montelukast sodium oral granules are used to: 1. Prevent asthma attacks and for the long-term treatment of asthma in children ages 12 months and older. Do not take montelukast sodium oral granules if you need relief right away for a sudden asthma attack.
If you have an asthma attack, you should follow the instructions your healthcare provider gave you for treating asthma attacks. 3. Help control the symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, stuffy nose, runny nose, and itching of the nose.
Montelukast sodium oral granules are used to treat the following in people who have already taken other medicines that did not work well enough or in people who could not tolerate other medicines: outdoor allergies that happen part of the year (seasonal allergic rhinitis) in children ages 2 years and older, and indoor allergies that happen all year (perennial allergic rhinitis) in children ages 6 months and older. Do not take montelukast sodium oral granules if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of the ingredients in montelukast sodium oral granules.
Before taking montelukast sodium oral granules, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you: are allergic to aspirin. have or have had mental health problems. are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, montelukast sodium oral granules may not be right for you. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if montelukast sodium passes into your breast milk.
Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while taking montelukast sodium oral granules. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over the counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines may affect how montelukast sodium oral granules work, or montelukast sodium oral granules may affect how your other medicines work.
How should I take montelukast sodium oral granules? For anyone who takes montelukast sodium oral granules: Read the detailed Instructions for Use that comes with montelukast sodium oral granules. Take montelukast sodium oral granules exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider will tell you how much montelukast sodium oral granules to take, and when to take it . Stop taking montelukast sodium oral granules and tell your healthcare provider right away if you or your child have any unusual changes in behavior or thinking. You can take montelukast sodium oral granules with food or without food.
See the sect…