Myteka Tablet Uses, Price in Pakistan, & Side Effects

Myteka Tablet is a widely prescribed medication containing Montelukast, used primarily for the prevention and long-term management of asthma and allergic rhinitis. This comprehensive guide delves into every aspect of Myteka, from its mechanism of action and primary benefits to its detailed dosage, potential side effects, current market price in Pakistan, and crucial safety information you need to know before taking it. Designed as an authoritative resource, this article provides clear, actionable information for patients and caregivers.

In this article, you will learn:
• The primary medical uses and benefits of Myteka Tablet.
• The correct dosage for adults and children.
• A detailed analysis of common and serious side effects.
• The latest price information for Myteka in Pakistan.
• Important drug interactions and safety warnings.
• How it compares to other popular brands like Stelix and Montek.

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What is Myteka Tablet? Understanding the Drug Montelukast

Myteka Tablet is a brand name for the generic drug Montelukast. It belongs to a class of medications known as leukotriene receptor antagonists. It is not a steroid or a rescue inhaler for sudden asthma attacks. Instead, it works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are substances in the body that cause inflammation, tightening of airways, and allergy symptoms. By inhibiting these chemicals, Myteka helps to prevent asthma symptoms and relieve allergies.

• What is the generic name for Myteka?
The generic name for Myteka is Montelukast. This is the active pharmaceutical ingredient that is responsible for its therapeutic effects. All brands, including Myteka, Stelix, Montek, and Kastair, contain Montelukast as their core component.

• Is Montelukast a steroid?
No, Montelukast is not a steroid. It is a completely different type of drug known as a leukotriene receptor antagonist. This is a common point of confusion. Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation broadly throughout the body, while Montelukast specifically targets and blocks the effects of leukotrienes. This makes it a targeted, non-steroidal option for managing chronic inflammatory conditions like asthma and allergies.

• How does Montelukast work in the body?
Montelukast works by precisely blocking the action of leukotrienes in the airways. Leukotrienes are potent inflammatory signaling molecules released by the immune system during an allergic reaction. They cause:

• Swelling and inflammation in the airways.
• Constriction and tightening of the bronchial muscles.
• Increased production of mucus.
  By attaching to the same receptors that leukotrienes would, Montelukast acts as a shield, preventing these molecules from triggering inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and other allergy-related symptoms. This makes breathing easier and reduces the frequency of asthma attacks and allergic reactions.

Primary Uses and Benefits of Myteka Tablet

Myteka Tablet is prescribed for specific chronic conditions where long-term control of inflammation is needed. Its uses are well-established in clinical practice for managing respiratory and allergic diseases. It is crucial to understand that Myteka is a preventive, maintenance medication and should not be used to treat an acute asthma attack or status asthmaticus.

Treating Bronchial Asthma
Myteka is a cornerstone for the prophylactic and chronic treatment of bronchial asthma. It helps to control the underlying inflammatory processes that characterize asthma, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of attacks.

• How does Myteka tablet help with asthma?
Myteka helps with asthma by providing consistent, 24-hour protection against the inflammation that narrows the airways. It reduces airway hyper-responsiveness, meaning your lungs become less sensitive to triggers like cold air, pollen, or exercise. Patients typically experience fewer daytime and nighttime asthma symptoms, a decreased need for their rescue inhaler (like salbutamol), and improved lung function over time.

• Is Myteka used for chronic or acute asthma?
Myteka is exclusively used for chronic asthma. It is a long-term control medication. For an acute asthma attack, where there is sudden shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing, a fast-acting bronchodilator (a “rescue inhaler”) is required. Myteka works too slowly to be effective in such emergency situations.

• What is the 2 2 2 rule for asthma?
The 2-2-2 rule is a simple first-aid guideline for someone experiencing a severe asthma attack who does not have their inhaler. It is not a treatment and does not involve Myteka. The rule suggests:

1. Sit the person upright and help them take 2 puffs of their reliever inhaler (if available, but the rule is often cited for when it’s not).
2. Give them 2 glasses of water to help thin mucus.
3. Take them for 2 minutes of fresh air.
   This is a temporary measure, and seeking immediate emergency medical attention is absolutely critical during a severe attack. Myteka plays no role in this acute scenario.

Managing Allergic Rhinitis
Myteka is highly effective in managing the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, whether it is seasonal or perennial.

• Is Montelukast an allergy tablet?
Yes, Montelukast is widely recognized and prescribed as an allergy tablet. It is particularly effective for allergic rhinitis symptoms that are not fully controlled by antihistamines alone. It addresses a different pathway of the allergic response, providing a broader approach to symptom management.

• Myteka tablet uses for allergy: Seasonal and perennial allergies.
Myteka is used to treat both seasonal allergies (triggered by pollen, mold spores) and perennial allergies (triggered by year-round allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and cockroaches). It effectively relieves:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Nasal itching
• Stuffy nose
• Itchy, watery eyes

• How does it compare to other allergy tablets like Kestine (Ebastine)?
Kestine (containing Ebastine) is a second-generation antihistamine. It primarily blocks the effects of histamine, another key chemical in allergic reactions. The choice between Myteka (Montelukast) and an antihistamine like Kestine often depends on the patient’s dominant symptoms.

Feature	Myteka (Montelukast)	Kestine (Ebastine)
Mechanism	Blocks leukotrienes	Blocks histamine
Best for	Nasal congestion, post-nasal drip, asthma comorbidity	Sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and throat
Onset of Action	Slower, for long-term control	Faster, for immediate relief
Common Use	Chronic management	As-needed or seasonal use

Often, doctors may prescribe both medications together for a synergistic effect in severe cases.

Other Key Uses of Myteka
Beyond asthma and allergic rhinitis, Myteka has several other evidence-based applications.

• Myteka tablet uses for cough: Especially exercise-induced and allergic cough.
Myteka is particularly effective for treating chronic coughs that have an allergic component or are related to asthma (cough-variant asthma). It is also the drug of choice for preventing exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB). A single dose taken at least 2 hours before exercise can protect against airway tightening and the resulting cough and shortness of breath.

• Myteka tablet uses for sore throat: When caused by post-nasal drip from allergies.
A persistent sore throat is often a result of post-nasal drip, where mucus from the nasal passages drips down the back of the throat, causing irritation and inflammation. By effectively controlling allergic rhinitis and reducing mucus production, Myteka indirectly alleviates this type of sore throat.

• Is Montelukast good for sleep?
Montelukast can indirectly improve sleep quality. Nighttime asthma symptoms and allergic nasal congestion are major disruptors of sleep. By effectively controlling these symptoms, Myteka allows for more restful and uninterrupted sleep. It is not a sedative or sleep aid, but its therapeutic action can lead to better sleep as a secondary benefit.

• Can Montelukast reduce cough?
Yes, Montelukast can significantly reduce coughing when the cough is caused by underlying asthma, allergies, or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. It works by calming the inflammatory response in the airways, which reduces hyper-reactivity and the urge to cough.

Myteka Tablet for Specific Populations

The use of Myteka must be tailored to different age groups, with specific formulations and dosages designed for safety and efficacy.

Myteka Tablet for Adults
For adults 15 years of age and older, the standard recommended dose for all indications (asthma, allergic rhinitis) is one 10 mg Myteka tablet taken once daily in the evening.

Myteka Tablet Uses for Kids
Myteka is approved for use in children and is available in chewable tablets and oral granules to make administration easier.

• Is Myteka tablet safe for children?
Yes, Myteka is considered safe and effective for children when used at the appropriate, doctor-prescribed dose. It is crucial to use the correct formulation and strength based on the child’s age.

• Myteka 5mg chewable tablet: Typically for children 6 to 14 years old.
• Myteka 4mg chewable tablet or oral granules: For children 2 to 5 years old.
• Myteka oral granules: Can be mixed with a spoonful of soft food (like applesauce or ice cream) for children as young as 6 months to 2 years old for asthma prevention.

• Important safety considerations for pediatric use.
Parents and caregivers must be especially vigilant about monitoring for behavioral and mood-related side effects in children. The FDA has issued its strongest warning, a Boxed Warning, regarding the risk of serious neuropsychiatric events in people taking Montelukast, and this risk may be particularly relevant in children. Any sign of agitation, aggression, depression, or suicidal thoughts should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Dosage and Administration: How to Take Myteka Correctly

Adhering to the correct dosage and timing is essential for Myteka to be effective and safe.

Standard Dosage Guidelines
The dosage is strictly determined by the patient’s age and the condition being treated.

• What is the standard Myteka tablet dose per day?
The standard dose is once daily. The strength varies:

• Adults and adolescents (15+ years): 10 mg
• Children (6-14 years): 5 mg (chewable tablet)
• Children (2-5 years): 4 mg (chewable tablet or oral granules)
• Children (6-23 months): 4 mg (oral granules)

• Myteka 5mg tablet vs. Myteka 10mg tablet: When is each used?
The Myteka 5mg tablet is specifically formulated as a chewable tablet for children between 6 and 14 years of age. The Myteka 10mg tablet is a film-coated tablet intended for adults and adolescents 15 years and older.

Timing and Best Practices
The timing of the dose can influence its effectiveness, particularly for certain symptoms.

• Why is Montelukast taken at night?
Montelukast is often recommended to be taken at night because asthma symptoms and leukotriene levels tend to peak in the early morning hours (between 2 AM and 6 AM). Taking the dose in the evening ensures that the drug’s concentration in the bloodstream is at its peak during this high-risk period, providing optimal protection against nighttime asthma attacks.

• What is the best time to take Montelukast?
The best time to take Montelukast is in the evening, at bedtime, for the reasons stated above. However, for consistency, it can be taken at any time of day, as long as it is taken at approximately the same time each day. For exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, it should be taken at least 2 hours before exercise and not more than once in a 24-hour period.

• Should Myteka be taken with food?
Myteka can be taken with or without food. The absorption of the 10mg film-coated tablet is not affected by meals. However, the chewable tablets may be taken with or without food, but some sources suggest taking them on an empty stomach for potentially slightly better absorption.

Treatment Duration
Myteka is intended for long-term use as directed by a physician.

• How many days should I take Montelukast?
You should take Montelukast for as long as your doctor prescribes it. It is a chronic maintenance medication. Do not stop taking it even if you feel well, unless instructed by your doctor, as this could lead to a worsening of your underlying condition.

• Is taking Montelukast every day safe?
For most patients, taking Montelukast daily is safe and necessary to control their condition. However, the safety profile must be continuously monitored by both the patient and the doctor, especially concerning neuropsychiatric side effects. The benefits of daily use in controlling asthma and allergies must be weighed against the potential risks.

• When should you stop taking Myteka?
You should only stop taking Myteka under the direct supervision of your doctor. Abruptly stopping can lead to a return of asthma symptoms. If you experience serious side effects, such as significant changes in behavior or mood, allergic reactions, or signs of liver problems, you should contact your doctor immediately for guidance on discontinuing the medication.

Side Effects of Myteka Tablet: What to Expect

Understanding the side effect profile of Myteka is critical for safe use. Patients should be aware of both common, minor side effects and rare, but serious, adverse reactions.

Common and Less Severe Side Effects
Most people taking Myteka tolerate it well, but some may experience mild side effects that often subside as the body adjusts.

• What are the most common side effects of Montelukast?
The most frequently reported side effects are generally mild and include:

• Headache
• Fever
• Sore throat (sometimes called “Montelukast flu”)
• Abdominal pain
• Cough
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea
• Dental pain (especially with chewable tablets)
• Feeling tired

• Can Stelix (Montelukast) make you sleepy?
Yes, fatigue and drowsiness are documented side effects of Montelukast, the active ingredient in both Myteka and Stelix. While not everyone experiences this, it is a common reason why taking the dose in the evening is practical, as it may mitigate any daytime drowsiness.

• How long do Montelukast side effects typically last?
Most common side effects like headache or stomach upset are temporary and often resolve within a few days to a couple of weeks as your body adapts to the medication. If these side effects persist or become bothersome, it is important to consult your doctor.

H3: Serious and Potentially Dangerous Side Effects
These require immediate medical attention. The FDA has placed a Boxed Warning on Montelukast because of these risks.

• What are the bad side effects of Montelukast?
Serious side effects, though less common, can be severe. They include:

• Neuropsychiatric events: Agitation, aggressive behavior, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and actions, hallucinations.
• Systemic eosinophilia: A condition with high levels of white blood cells, sometimes presenting with rash, nerve problems, and worsening respiratory symptoms.
• Severe allergic reactions: Rash, hives, swelling (especially of the face, lips, tongue, and throat), and anaphylaxis.
• Liver problems: Unexplained nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, right-sided abdominal pain, yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine.

• Is Montelukast high risk?
Montelukast is considered to have a higher risk profile compared to some other allergy medications like antihistamines, primarily due to its Boxed Warning for neuropsychiatric events. Because of this, it is not typically a first-line treatment for mild allergies. It is reserved for cases where the benefits clearly outweigh the risks, such as in patients with concomitant asthma or those who do not respond to other therapies.

• How does Montelukast affect the brain?
The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but Montelukast is known to cross the blood-brain barrier. Leukotrienes are also present in the brain and are involved in neuroinflammation and mood regulation. It is hypothesized that by blocking leukotrienes in the central nervous system, Montelukast may inadvertently disrupt these processes in susceptible individuals, leading to the observed neuropsychiatric effects.

• Can Montelukast affect your heart?
The evidence regarding Montelukast and heart risk is mixed. Some early studies and post-marketing reports suggested a potential link to palpitations and other cardiac events, but large-scale studies have not consistently confirmed a significant increased risk for the general population. However, patients with pre-existing heart conditions should discuss this with their doctor before starting treatment.

• What is one of the worst side effects of this medication?
One of the most severe potential side effects is the onset of serious neuropsychiatric events, including suicidal ideation and behavior. This risk is significant enough to warrant the FDA’s strongest warning. Patients and caregivers must be hyper-vigilant for any changes in mood, behavior, or thought patterns.

Price of Myteka Tablet in Pakistan

The price of Myteka Tablet can vary based on location, pharmacy, and pack size.

Current Market Price
As of the latest data, the price for Myteka in Pakistan is approximately:

• Myteka tablet 10 mg price in Pakistan: PKR 150 to PKR 250 for a strip of 10 tablets.
• Myteka 5mg tablet price in Pakistan: PKR 100 to PKR 180 for a strip of 10 chewable tablets.
  These prices are subject to change due to factors like inflation, import costs, and pharmacy branding.

Price Comparison with Other Brands
Myteka is often a competitively priced option. Here is a rough comparison for a strip of 10 tablets:

• Myteka 10mg: PKR 150 – PKR 250
• Stelix 10mg: PKR 180 – PKR 280
• Montek 10mg: PKR 200 – PKR 300
• Kastair 10mg: PKR 160 – PKR 260
• Freehale 10mg: PKR 170 – PKR 270
  It is always advisable to check prices at local pharmacies or reliable online drug portals for the most current information.

Important Warnings, Precautions, and Interactions

Safe use of Myteka involves understanding who should avoid it and what other substances it may interact with.

Who Should Avoid Myteka?
Certain individuals should not take Myteka or should use it with extreme caution.

• Who cannot take Montelukast?

• Patients with a known hypersensitivity to Montelukast or any component of the tablet.
• Patients with a history of severe neuropsychiatric reactions to Montelukast in the past.
• Patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid certain chewable tablets that contain aspartame.
• Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding should only be considered if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or infant.

Drug and Lifestyle Interactions
Myteka has a relatively low potential for drug interactions, but some are noteworthy.

• What should I avoid while taking Montelukast?

• Other Montelukast products: Do not take other brands of Montelukast concurrently.
• Rifampin and Phenobarbital: These drugs can significantly reduce the blood levels of Montelukast, making it less effective. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose.
• Alcohol: While no direct interaction is major, alcohol can worsen dizziness or drowsiness that might be caused by Myteka.
• Non-prescription painkillers: In patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), Montelukast is often used, but NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin themselves can trigger attacks and should be avoided unless cleared by a doctor.

Comparing Myteka with Other Montelukast Brands

The primary difference between brands is often the price and the inactive ingredients.

Myteka vs. Stelix
Myteka and Stelix are bioequivalent, meaning they contain the same active ingredient (Montelukast 10mg) and are therapeutically interchangeable. The choice often comes down to cost, availability, and patient or physician preference. The side effect profile is identical as it is inherent to Montelukast itself.

Myteka vs. Montek / Kastair / Freehale
Montek, Kastair, and Freehale are all other popular Pakistani brands of Montelukast.

• What are the side effects of the Montek tablet?
The side effects of Montek tablet are exactly the same as those for Myteka, Stelix, and all other Montelukast brands. They include headache, potential neuropsychiatric events, and all other side effects listed in this article. The active ingredient is identical.

• What is Freehale used for?
Freehale is used for the exact same medical conditions as Myteka: the prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma, the relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis, and the prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the positive effects of Montelukast?
The positive effects of Montelukast include a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of asthma attacks, decreased need for rescue inhalers, improved control over daytime and nighttime allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion), and effective prevention of exercise-induced breathing problems.

2. Is Montelukast good for lungs?
Yes, for individuals with asthma, Montelukast is good for the lungs. It works directly in the airways to reduce chronic inflammation, decrease bronchial hyper-reactivity, and prevent the tightening of the bronchial muscles. This leads to overall improved lung function and easier breathing over the long term.

3. Is Montelukast for cough and cold?
Montelukast is for a specific type of cough related to asthma or allergies. It is not intended for treating the common cold. The cough associated with a cold is usually due to a viral infection and mucus, whereas Montelukast targets inflammation from an allergic or asthmatic response.

4. How long do Montelukast side effects last?
Most common side effects like headache or stomach upset are temporary and typically subside within a few days to two weeks. However, serious side effects, such as neuropsychiatric events, may not resolve on their own and require immediate medical attention and likely discontinuation of the drug.

5. Is Montelukast good or bad?
Montelukast is neither inherently “good” nor “bad.” It is a powerful and effective medication for specific conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis. Its use represents a risk-benefit calculation. For many, the benefit of controlling a debilitating chronic condition far outweighs the risk of side effects. This decision must be made in close consultation with a healthcare professional.

6. What are three common side effects?
Three of the most commonly reported side effects of Montelukast are:

1. Headache
2. Fever
3. Abdominal (stomach) pain

7. Which is the best tablet for allergy?
There is no single “best” tablet for allergy, as the ideal choice depends on the individual’s specific symptoms, medical history, and response to treatment. For mild sneezing and itching, a non-sedating antihistamine like cetirizine or loratadine may be best. For nasal congestion and patients with accompanying asthma, Montelukast (Myteka) is often a highly effective choice. A doctor can help determine the best option for you.

Conclusion

Myteka Tablet, containing Montelukast, is a cornerstone in the management of chronic asthma and allergic conditions. Its unique mechanism of action provides a non-steroidal option for long-term control, improving quality of life for countless patients. However, its use demands respect and vigilance due to the potential for serious neuropsychiatric side effects. By understanding its proper uses, adhering to prescribed dosages, being aware of its price in the market, and monitoring for adverse effects, patients can safely and effectively incorporate Myteka into their treatment regimen. Always use this medication under the strict guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.