Arokast 10 mg

Description

Indications
Arokast is prescribed for:

• Prevention and long-term management of asthma
• Acute prevention of Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB)
• Symptomatic relief of Allergic Rhinitis (AR), including both Seasonal and Perennial Allergic Rhinitis.

Take the medication according to the advice of a registered healthcare professional.

Pharmacology
Montelukast, the active ingredient in Arokast, is a selective leukotriene receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor (CysLT1), which plays a key role in inflammation. Cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTC4, LTD4, LTE4) are released by various cells, including mast cells and eosinophils, and contribute to airway inflammation, smooth muscle contraction, and swelling in conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis. By inhibiting leukotriene receptors, Montelukast helps reduce symptoms associated with these conditions.

Dosage & Administration
For Adults and Adolescents with asthma or seasonal allergic rhinitis:

• Adults and adolescents (15 years or older): Take 10 mg of Montelukast once a day.

For Pediatric Patients with asthma or seasonal allergic rhinitis:

• Children aged 6 to 14 years: Take 5 mg of Montelukast once a day.
• Children aged 2 to 5 years: Take 4 mg of Montelukast once a day.
• Children aged 6 months to 5 years: Take 4 mg of Montelukast oral granules once a day. These granules can be consumed directly in the mouth or mixed with a spoonful of cold water or soft food at room temperature.

Use in Pediatric Patients:
Montelukast has been proven effective and safe in children aged 6 months to 14 years in clinical trials, showing similar safety and efficacy profiles as seen in adults.

Hepatic Insufficiency:
No dose adjustment is needed for patients with mild-to-moderate liver impairment.

Renal Insufficiency:
No dosage modification is required for patients with kidney impairment.

Elderly Patients:
The pharmacokinetics of Montelukast are similar in elderly and younger adults. While the plasma half-life may be slightly longer in older individuals, no dose adjustment is necessary for the elderly.

Always consult with a registered healthcare professional before use.

Drug Interactions
Arokast can be taken alongside other asthma treatments without significant adverse reactions. Clinical studies have shown that Arokast does not affect the pharmacokinetics of medications such as theophylline, prednisone, prednisolone, oral contraceptives, digoxin, warfarin, or terfenadine. However, the co-administration of Arokast with potent cytochrome P450 enzyme inducers like phenobarbital may decrease the effectiveness of Arokast by approximately 40%. Close clinical monitoring is recommended when such drugs are used together.

Contraindications
Arokast should not be used by individuals who are hypersensitive to any of its ingredients.

Side Effects
Common side effects include:

• Diarrhea, fever, gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, nausea, vomiting, skin reactions, and upper respiratory tract infections.

Less common side effects include:

• Akathisia, anxiety, joint pain, weakness, abnormal behavior, depression, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, irritability, malaise, muscle pain, swelling, seizures, abnormal sensations, sleep disturbances.

Rare side effects include:

• Angioedema, impaired concentration, disorientation, hallucinations, liver problems, memory loss, palpitations, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, pulmonary eosinophilia, suicidal thoughts, and tremor.

Pregnancy & Lactation
Montelukast is known to cross the placenta in animal studies. However, there are insufficient controlled studies in pregnant women. It should only be used during pregnancy when the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Montelukast may also be excreted in breast milk, so caution is advised when using it during breastfeeding.

Precautions & Warnings
Arokast is not intended for the immediate relief of acute asthma attacks, including status asthmaticus. It should not replace rescue medication for sudden asthma symptoms. Patients should continue to have their rescue medications available. Arokast is not a suitable standalone treatment for exercise-induced bronchospasm. If a patient is sensitive to aspirin, they should avoid aspirin and NSAIDs while using Arokast. Although Arokast improves airway function in aspirin-sensitive asthma patients, it does not prevent the bronchoconstriction caused by aspirin or NSAIDs.

Overdose Effects
Overdose symptoms are generally mild and include abdominal pain, drowsiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and psychomotor hyperactivity. In case of overdose, supportive measures should be taken, including removal of any unabsorbed material from the gastrointestinal tract and clinical monitoring.

Therapeutic Class
Leukotriene receptor antagonists

Storage Conditions
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Chemical Structure
Molecular Formula: C35H36ClNO3S
Chemical Structure: Montelukast Sodium

Common Questions about Arokast 10 mg Tablet

• What is Arokast 10 mg Tablet?
  Arokast 10 mg Tablet is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used for managing asthma and allergic rhinitis.

• How soon can I feel the effects of Arokast 10 mg Tablet?
  The effects are typically observed 1-3 hours after administration. However, it is not a fast-acting rescue medication for asthma attacks.

• How long do the effects of Arokast 10 mg Tablet last?
  The effects last for about 24 hours.

• Can Arokast 10 mg Tablet be taken on an empty stomach?
  Yes, Arokast 10 mg Tablet can be taken with or without food as prescribed by your doctor.

• What should I do if I miss a dose of Arokast 10 mg Tablet?
  If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible unless it’s nearly time for the next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

• Is Arokast 10 mg Tablet safe during pregnancy?
  Arokast should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Always consult your doctor before taking it if pregnant.

General Instructions

• Take Arokast 10 mg Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not alter the dosage or stop using asthma medication without consulting your doctor.
• Arokast 10 mg Tablet is not for immediate relief of asthma attacks. Seek medical help if your breathing worsens or your medications are ineffective.
• Avoid activities that may trigger asthma attacks.
• Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before using Arokast 10 mg Tablet.