Montelukast Sodium And Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects And Alternatives

Montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets are commonly prescribed for allergy-related symptoms such as sneezing, nasal blockage, itching, watery eyes and runny nose. This combination may also help people who have allergic rhinitis along with mild asthma symptoms, when a doctor finds it suitable.

Allergies can make daily life uncomfortable. You may feel tired, blocked, itchy or unable to sleep well because of repeated sneezing or congestion. The right treatment, along with trigger control and regular health monitoring, can help you feel more in control.

This article explains montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets uses, dosage, side effects, precautions and possible alternatives in simple terms.

What Are Montelukast And Levocetirizine?

Montelukast and levocetirizine are two different medicines combined in one tablet.

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist. Leukotrienes are chemicals released by your body during an allergic reaction. They can cause swelling inside the nose, mucus formation and tightening of the airways.

Levocetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine. It blocks histamine, another chemical involved in allergy symptoms. Histamine is mainly responsible for sneezing, itching, watery eyes and runny nose.

Together, montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets act on two allergy pathways. This dual action may offer better symptom control for some people than using one medicine alone.

Montelukast Sodium And Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets Uses

Montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets uses may include:

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever
• Perennial allergic rhinitis caused by dust mites, mould, pet dander or indoor allergens
• Sneezing, nasal itching, watery eyes and runny nose
• Nasal congestion linked to allergy
• Allergic Skin Conditions such as hives, itching and raised red patches, when advised by a doctor
• Allergy-related cough or throat irritation in selected cases
• Supportive control of asthma symptoms in people who also have allergic rhinitis

Montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets are not meant for sudden breathing difficulty or an acute asthma attack. If you have asthma, keep your rescue inhaler as prescribed by your doctor.

How Do Montelukast Sodium And Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets Work?

Montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets work by reducing the effect of two allergy chemicals.

Levocetirizine blocks histamine. This helps reduce sneezing, itching, watery eyes and runny nose.

Montelukast blocks leukotrienes. This helps reduce deeper inflammation, nasal swelling, mucus formation and airway sensitivity.

This is why the combination may be useful when allergies cause both quick symptoms, such as sneezing, and longer-lasting symptoms, such as congestion.

Dosage Of Montelukast Sodium And Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets

The dosage of montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets must be decided by your doctor. Many adult combinations contain montelukast 10 mg and levocetirizine 5 mg, usually taken once daily, often in the evening.

Do not start this medicine on your own. Do not take more than the prescribed dose. Higher doses may increase the risk of drowsiness, headache, restlessness or other side effects.

For children, the dose depends on age, weight, symptoms and the exact formulation. Paediatric use should always be guided by a doctor.

If you miss a dose, take the next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

What Tests Are Affected By Taking Montelukast And Levocetirizine?

Montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets usually do not affect most routine blood tests. However, levocetirizine is an antihistamine and may affect allergy skin tests by reducing the skin reaction to allergens.

If you are scheduled for allergy skin prick testing, tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine. Your doctor may ask you to stop antihistamines for a few days before the test. Do not stop any medicine without medical advice.

Blood-based allergy tests, complete blood count, liver function tests and kidney function tests are generally not affected in the same way as skin tests. Still, always share your full medicine list before any test.

What Tests Should Be Done In Case Of A Montelukast And Levocetirizine Overdose?

An overdose of montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets needs medical attention. Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, agitation, restlessness, vomiting, stomach pain, headache or unusual behaviour.

There is no routine home test to confirm overdose. At a clinic or emergency unit, the doctor may assess your pulse, blood pressure, breathing, oxygen levels and level of alertness. Depending on symptoms, tests may include:

• Kidney function test
• Liver function test
• Electrolytes
• Blood sugar
• Complete blood count
• ECG, if there are concerning symptoms
• Urine output monitoring

Take the medicine strip or bottle with you so the healthcare team can check the exact strength and number of tablets.

Side Effects Of Montelukast Sodium And Levocetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets

Most people tolerate montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets well when used as prescribed. Some side effects may still occur.

Common side effects may include:

• Sleepiness or tiredness
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Mild cough or throat discomfort

Less common but important side effects may include:

• Mood changes
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Unusual dreams
• Sleep disturbance
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviour
• Trouble passing urine
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
• Severe rash or breathing difficulty

Seek urgent medical help if you notice severe allergy symptoms, sudden swelling, breathing difficulty or worrying changes in mood or behaviour.

Substitute Medications For Montelukast And Levocetirizine

Substitutes for montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets depend on your symptoms and diagnosis. Do not replace this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Possible alternatives may include:

• A single antihistamine for mild allergy symptoms
• Steroid nasal sprays for allergic rhinitis
• Saline nasal sprays or rinses
• Eye drops for allergic conjunctivitis
• Other asthma controller medicines, if asthma is present
• Allergen immunotherapy in selected people
• Trigger avoidance and environmental control

Your doctor will choose an option based on your age, symptom severity, asthma history, kidney health, pregnancy status and other medicines you take.

Precautions And Warnings

Before taking montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets, tell your doctor if you:

• Have kidney disease
• Have liver disease
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a history of anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance or mood changes
• Have difficulty passing urine
• Take alcohol, sleeping pills or sedatives
• Have asthma or aspirin sensitivity
• Are giving the medicine to a child
• Are taking other allergy or cold medicines

Levocetirizine can cause drowsiness in some people. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Avoid alcohol because it can increase sleepiness.

Montelukast should not be used as a rescue medicine for sudden asthma symptoms. If your breathing worsens, follow your asthma action plan and seek medical help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Montelukast And Levocetirizine Be Taken Together?

Yes, montelukast and levocetirizine can be taken together when prescribed by a doctor. The combination is often used for allergic rhinitis and allergy-related symptoms because both medicines work in different ways.

Is Montelukast Safe For Children?

Montelukast may be prescribed to children in age-appropriate doses. However, it should only be used under medical supervision. Parents should watch for mood changes, sleep problems, agitation or unusual behaviour and report them promptly.

How Long Should I Take Montelukast?

The duration depends on your condition. Some people need it for a short allergy season. Others may need longer treatment for ongoing allergic rhinitis or asthma-related control. Follow your doctor’s advice and do not stop suddenly without checking.

What Should I Do If I Miss A Dose Of Montelukast And Levocetirizine?

Take your next dose at the usual time. Do not double the dose. Taking extra tablets can increase side effects such as drowsiness, headache or restlessness.

Can I Take This Medicine For A Runny Nose Due To A Cold?

A runny nose due to allergy is different from a runny nose due to a viral cold. Montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets are mainly used for allergy-related symptoms. Speak to your doctor if you have fever, body ache, thick discharge or symptoms lasting longer than expected.

Can This Medicine Help Allergic Skin Conditions?

Levocetirizine may help reduce itching and hives in some Allergic Skin Conditions. Montelukast may be added in selected cases. If you have repeated hives, swelling or severe itching, you should get medical advice to identify the trigger.

Conclusion

Montelukast sodium and levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets can help manage allergic rhinitis, runny nose, sneezing, nasal blockage, itching and some Allergic Skin Conditions when used correctly. The medicine can be useful, but it must be taken under medical guidance, especially in children, pregnant women, older adults and people with kidney problems or mood-related concerns.

Along with treatment, it helps to stay aware of your health markers. Routine blood tests, full body checkups and allergy-related investigations can support early detection, preventive care and better long-term wellness.

Metropolis Healthcare makes this easier with NABL and CAP-accredited labs, expert pathologists, 4,000+ tests, accurate reports, quick turnaround time and home sample collection. You can book tests through the website, app, call or WhatsApp, with access supported by a strong network of 10,000 touchpoints.

References

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA requires Boxed Warning about serious mental health side effects for asthma and allergy drug montelukast and advises restricting use for allergic rhinitis. FDA Drug Safety Communication. 2020.
2. DailyMed. Montelukast sodium tablets prescribing information. U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. DailyMed. Levocetirizine dihydrochloride tablets prescribing information. U.S. National Library of Medicine.
4. Kim CK, Hwang Y, Song DJ, Yu J, Sohn MH, Park YM, Lim DH, Ahn K, Rha YH. Efficacy and safety of montelukast plus levocetirizine combination therapy compared to montelukast monotherapy for allergic rhinitis in children. Allergy Asthma Immunol Res. 2024;16(6):652-667. DOI: 10.4168/aair.2024.16.6.652.
5. Bylappa BK, et al. A randomized, multicenter, double-blind, phase III study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a fixed-dose combination of montelukast and levocetirizine in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis and mild to moderate asthma. Clinical Therapeutics. 2018.