Nukast 10mg Tablets 10′

Description

Nukast 10mg is a brand name for a medication containing Montelukast as its active ingredient. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA), which helps control the inflammation associated with asthma and other allergic conditions by blocking the action of leukotrienes—chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, swelling, and constriction in the airways.

Active Ingredient:

• Montelukast (10 mg per tablet)

Uses of Nukast 10mg:

Nukast is used to manage and treat a variety of conditions, primarily related to respiratory health and allergic reactions. Some of the common uses include:

1. Asthma (Bronchial Asthma):
   • Nukast is used as a long-term maintenance treatment for asthma. It helps prevent symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. It is often used as an adjunct to other asthma medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators, but can also be used as a stand-alone treatment in mild cases.
2. Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever):
   • Nukast is effective in treating allergic rhinitis (hay fever), a condition triggered by allergens like pollen, dust, mold, or pet dander. It helps reduce symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
3. Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction:
   • Montelukast is commonly used to prevent symptoms of exercise-induced asthma (EIA). Taking Nukast before physical activity helps prevent shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing triggered by exercise.
4. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):
   • Although Montelukast is not a first-line treatment for COPD, it may be used in certain cases where there is a component of allergic inflammation or asthma-like symptoms contributing to the condition.

How Nukast 10mg Works:

• Leukotrienes are inflammatory chemicals produced by the body during allergic reactions and asthma exacerbations. They cause the tightening of airway muscles, increase mucus production, and contribute to inflammation in the airways.
• Montelukast works by blocking the leukotriene receptors, thus preventing leukotrienes from causing inflammation, airway constriction, and excessive mucus production. This helps to keep the airways open, reduce symptoms of asthma, and relieve allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Dosage and Administration:

• Typical Dosage: For adults and children over 15 years old, the usual dose is 10 mg once daily. The tablet is usually taken in the evening, with or without food.
  • For children aged 6 to 14 years, the dose is typically 5 mg once daily (often in the form of a chewable tablet).
  • For children aged 2 to 5 years, the typical dose is 4 mg once daily (usually in chewable tablets or granules).
• Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: If Nukast is being used to prevent exercise-induced asthma, it is typically taken at least 2 hours before exercise to prevent symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath during physical activity.
• Administration: Nukast tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. It’s recommended to take the medication at the same time every day to help remember.

Side Effects of Nukast 10mg:

While Montelukast is generally well tolerated, there can be side effects. The most common side effects include:

1. Common Side Effects:
   • Headache
   • Dizziness
   • Abdominal pain or discomfort
   • Fatigue
   • Diarrhea
   • Coughing or throat irritation
   • Upper respiratory tract infections (such as a cold or sore throat)
2. Serious Side Effects (although rare):
   • Behavioral or mood changes: Montelukast has been associated with rare side effects such as irritability, aggression, depression, and suicidal thoughts. It’s important to monitor mood changes, especially in children and adolescents, and seek medical help if these occur.
   • Allergic reactions: Serious allergic reactions, including rash, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis), can occur but are rare.
   • Liver problems: Signs of liver issues such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or upper abdominal pain.
   • Sleep disturbances: Some people may experience insomnia, vivid dreams, or even sleepwalking.

Precautions and Warnings:

• Mental Health: As mentioned, Montelukast can have effects on mood and behavior. If you or someone in your family notices mood changes, agitation, or thoughts of self-harm, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
• Liver Disease: If you have a history of liver disease, your healthcare provider may monitor your liver function while you are on this medication.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
  • Pregnancy: Montelukast is classified as Category B for pregnancy, which means it is not expected to harm the fetus, but it should still only be used when necessary and prescribed by your doctor.
  • Breastfeeding: Montelukast is excreted in breast milk in small amounts, and it’s generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but you should consult your doctor if you’re breastfeeding.
• Children and Adolescents: Nukast is commonly used in children with asthma or allergic rhinitis. However, monitoring for side effects, especially related to mood or behavior, is essential.

Drug Interactions:

Montelukast generally has minimal drug interactions, but it’s still important to inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some interactions include:

• Phenobarbital, rifampin, or phenytoin: These drugs may reduce the effectiveness of Montelukast.
• Aspirin or NSAIDs: Caution is advised when using Montelukast with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as these can sometimes worsen asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals.
• Other medications for asthma: Montelukast can be used with inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, or other asthma medications, but combining medications should always be done under medical supervision.

Storage:

• Store Nukast 10mg tablets in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. The medication should be kept out of reach of children.
• Expiration: Do not use the medication after the expiration date printed on the package.