AIRFAST 10mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is AIRFAST 10mg

AIRFAST 10mg Film-coated Tablets contain the active ingredient Montelukast sodium, a leukotriene receptor antagonist used primarily for the treatment and prevention of asthma and allergic rhinitis symptoms. Montelukast works by blocking leukotrienes—chemical messengers involved in the inflammatory process and allergic responses.

• Indication: AIRFAST is prescribed for the long-term management of asthma in adults and adolescents (typically 15 years and older).
• Allergic Rhinitis: It is also effective in relieving daytime and nighttime symptoms of seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis.
• Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: It may be used prophylactically in exercise-induced asthma, but it is not intended for acute asthma attacks.
• Formulation: AIRFAST comes as film-coated tablets in a pack of 30 tablets (3 blister strips of 10 tablets each).
• Prescription-based: This medication requires a physician’s prescription and should only be taken under medical supervision.

AIRFAST offers a convenient, once-daily oral option for patients struggling with asthma-related symptoms or allergic rhinitis. It is often part of a broader asthma management plan that may include inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators.

How to use AIRFAST 10mg

Proper use of AIRFAST 10mg ensures optimal therapeutic effects while minimizing the risk of side effects. The medicine should be taken as prescribed by your doctor.

• Dosage Timing: Take one 10mg tablet once daily, preferably in the evening. It can be taken with or without food.
• Swallow Whole: The tablet should be swallowed whole with water. Do not crush or chew unless advised otherwise.
• Asthma Patients: For asthma, take AIRFAST regularly every day, even when you have no symptoms.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's near your next dose time, skip the missed dose. Never double your dose to make up for the missed one.
• Not for Acute Attacks: This medication is not suitable for relief of sudden asthma attacks. Use a rescue inhaler (like salbutamol) as directed for emergencies.
• Adherence is Key: Do not stop using AIRFAST without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Asthma and allergies often require long-term management.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions on how long to use AIRFAST. The benefits may take a few days to become noticeable, especially in allergic rhinitis cases.

Mode of Action AIRFAST 10mg

Montelukast, the active ingredient in AIRFAST, works by targeting specific pathways in the inflammatory cascade that lead to asthma and allergic symptoms.

• Leukotriene Pathway Blocker: Montelukast is a selective leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA). It blocks the action of cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLT1), which are released from mast cells and eosinophils during allergic reactions.
• Bronchoconstriction Prevention: Leukotrienes contribute to bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, and inflammation in the airways. By inhibiting their action, AIRFAST prevents tightening of airway muscles and swelling.
• Anti-inflammatory Effect: Unlike corticosteroids, which broadly suppress inflammation, Montelukast specifically blocks leukotrienes without immunosuppressive effects.
• Onset of Action: Effects typically begin within 24 hours of starting therapy, with continued improvement over time with consistent use.
• Complementary Therapy: It is commonly used alongside inhaled corticosteroids in patients who require additional asthma control.

The targeted action of Montelukast provides symptom relief in both asthma and allergic rhinitis while minimizing the risk of systemic side effects seen with steroids.

AIRFAST 10mg Interactions AIRFAST 10mg

Montelukast has a relatively low potential for drug interactions, but it’s still important to be aware of combinations that may affect its efficacy or safety.

• Enzyme Inducers: Drugs like phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampicin can reduce the plasma concentration of Montelukast by enhancing its metabolism via CYP3A4, possibly decreasing its effectiveness.
• Cytochrome P450 Inhibitors: Though Montelukast is metabolized by CYP2C8, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4, it does not significantly inhibit these enzymes and is unlikely to affect other drugs metabolized by them.
• Gemfibrozil: This lipid-lowering agent may increase plasma concentrations of Montelukast. While generally well-tolerated, caution is advised.
• Theophylline: No clinically significant interactions have been reported, but monitoring may still be advisable.
• Warfarin: Studies show no significant interaction, but routine INR monitoring is recommended when starting or stopping AIRFAST.
• Alcohol and Herbal Supplements: Patients should be cautious with alcohol or unregulated supplements, which may unpredictably interact with Montelukast.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Dosage of AIRFAST 10mg

The dosage of AIRFAST depends on the condition being treated and the patient’s age. Below is the general guideline, but individual adjustments may be necessary.

• Adults and Adolescents (≥15 years): One 10mg tablet once daily in the evening, regardless of meals.
• Asthma: Continue treatment even when asymptomatic for long-term control. It should be part of a broader asthma management plan.
• Allergic Rhinitis: The 10mg once-daily dose is effective in managing nasal congestion, sneezing, and rhinorrhea symptoms.
• Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction: Should be taken at least 2 hours before physical activity. However, it should not be taken more than once in 24 hours.
• Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. Never double-dose.
• Special Populations: No dose adjustment is needed in the elderly or those with mild to moderate hepatic or renal impairment.

Do not self-adjust your dosage. Prolonged or improper use without supervision may reduce the drug's effectiveness or cause unwanted side effects.

Possible side effects of AIRFAST 10mg

Most patients tolerate AIRFAST well, but like all medicines, it may cause side effects. These are generally mild and transient, but some can be serious.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Headache
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fatigue
  • Cough
  • Diarrhea
• Less Common Side Effects:
  • Elevated liver enzymes
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Rash or skin reactions
• Rare but Serious:
  • Neuropsychiatric events: Including agitation, aggression, depression, hallucinations, or suicidal thoughts (especially in children and adolescents).
  • Churg-Strauss Syndrome: A rare eosinophilic condition that may develop if systemic corticosteroids are withdrawn too quickly after starting Montelukast.
  • Severe allergic reactions: Swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis (very rare).

Report any unusual or severe symptoms to your doctor promptly. Do not discontinue AIRFAST without consulting your physician.

AIRFAST 10mg Contraindications AIRFAST 10mg

Although AIRFAST is safe for most patients, certain conditions or factors contraindicate its use:

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Montelukast or any of the excipients in the formulation.
• Severe Liver Impairment: Caution is advised, and alternative medications may be considered in patients with hepatic dysfunction.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Should only be used if clearly needed and prescribed by a physician, as safety data is limited in these populations.
• Acute Asthma Attacks: AIRFAST should not be used as a rescue medication for sudden breathing difficulties.
• Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Use with caution in patients with a history of mental health conditions, especially if signs of mood changes or behavioral symptoms appear.

Prior to initiating therapy, a full medical history and current medication list should be reviewed to rule out any risk factors or contraindications.

Storage of AIRFAST 10mg

Proper storage of AIRFAST ensures that the medication retains its effectiveness until its expiration date.

• Temperature: Store at room temperature, ideally between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
• Humidity: Keep the medicine in a dry place. Avoid storing in bathrooms or near sinks where moisture can accumulate.
• Light Protection: Store in the original blister packaging to protect from light and air exposure.
• Child Safety: Keep out of reach and sight of children. Use child-proof containers if available.
• Disposal: Do not flush unused tablets or pour down the drain. Follow local guidelines for proper medicine disposal or consult a pharmacist.
• Packaging Integrity: Do not use the medicine if the packaging is torn, blister is punctured, or the tablet appears discolored.

Always check the expiration date printed on the box or blister strip. Do not use AIRFAST beyond this date.