Montemac Fx Tablet (10 Tab)

MONTEMAC FX TABLET (10 TAB) by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

Name

• Brand Name: Montemac-FX Tablet
• Common Name: Fexofenadine and Montelukast Tablets

Composition

Montemac-FX Tablet contains two active ingredients:

• Fexofenadine (120 mg)
• Montelukast (10 mg)

Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that blocks histamine, a substance released during allergic reactions, thus reducing symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks leukotrienes, chemicals that cause inflammation and increased mucus production in the airways, making breathing easier and reducing allergic symptoms.

Uses

Montemac-FX Tablet is primarily prescribed to treat and prevent symptoms associated with various allergic conditions in adults and children above 12 years of age.

• Allergic Rhinitis: This includes both seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and perennial allergic rhinitis, alleviating symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, nasal congestion, and watery eyes.
• Asthma Prevention and Treatment: It helps in the prevention and treatment of asthma symptoms and exercise-induced asthma.
• Allergic Skin Conditions: Such as chronic urticaria (hives), providing relief from itching, redness, and swelling.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended daily dose of Montemac-FX Tablet is typically one tablet, taken once a day. It can be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time. The exact dosage and duration should be as advised by a doctor, as it may vary based on the patient's condition and response to treatment. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet.

Side Effects

Montemac-FX Tablet is generally considered safe when taken as directed. However, some individuals may experience side effects.

• Common Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness, flu-like symptoms, and skin rash.
• Less Common/Serious Side Effects: Stomach discomfort, insomnia, restlessness, irritability, anxiety, elevated liver enzyme levels, sore throat, fever, sinus pain, aggression, agitation, swelling of deep skin layers, joint pain, muscle cramps, and in rare cases, mood changes or self-harming thoughts. Consult a doctor if side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take Montemac-FX Tablet if you are allergic to Fexofenadine, Montelukast, or any of its components.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase drowsiness and worsen other side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use with caution and consult a doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Kidney and Liver Disease: Patients with kidney or liver disease should use this medicine with caution, and dose adjustments may be necessary. Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as some may interact with Montemac-FX Tablet (e.g., Ketoconazole, Rifampicin, Phenobarbital, and indigestion remedies containing magnesium and aluminum).
• Fruit Juices: Avoid taking it with fruit juices (such as apple, orange, or grapefruit) as they might reduce the effectiveness of the drug.
• Allergy Tests: It may interfere with the results of skin allergy tests. Your doctor may advise you to stop taking it a few days before such tests.
• Children: Not recommended for children below 12 years of age.

Storage

Store Montemac-FX Tablet at room temperature, typically below 25°C or 30°C. Protect it from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep this medication out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Dispose of expired or unused medication properly.

What is MONTEMAC FX TABLET used for?

MONTEMAC FX TABLET is a combination medicine primarily used to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever. This includes both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. It helps alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, stuffy or blocked nose, itchy eyes, watery eyes, and nasal congestion. It can also provide relief from chronic hives (urticaria) and symptoms associated with asthma.

How does MONTEMAC FX TABLET work?

MONTEMAC FX TABLET contains two active ingredients: Montelukast and Fexofenadine. Fexofenadine is an antihistamine that works by blocking the action of histamine, a natural substance in the body responsible for causing allergic reactions like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the action of chemical messengers called leukotrienes, which are produced by the body during an allergic or inflammatory response. Leukotrienes cause inflammation, swelling, and narrowing of the airways, so by blocking their effects, Montelukast helps reduce inflammation, improve breathing, and relieve allergy symptoms.

What is the usual dosage of MONTEMAC FX TABLET?

The recommended daily dose of MONTEMAC FX TABLET is typically one tablet taken once a day. It can be taken with or without food. The exact dosage and duration of treatment will be determined by your doctor based on your specific condition and response to the medicine. It's important not to exceed the prescribed dose.

What are the possible side effects of MONTEMAC FX TABLET?

Common side effects associated with MONTEMAC FX TABLET include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and flu-like symptoms. Some individuals may also experience skin rash or tiredness. If these side effects persist, worsen, or cause concern, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Is MONTEMAC FX TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During Pregnancy: MONTEMAC FX TABLET should be used with caution during pregnancy, and generally, its use is advised only if considered clearly necessary by a doctor. Animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby, and there is limited information in humans. It is crucial to consult your doctor to weigh the benefits against potential risks if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

During Breastfeeding: There is conflicting information regarding the safety of MONTEMAC FX TABLET during breastfeeding. Some sources suggest it is probably safe to use as it appears in breast milk in very small amounts not known to harm the baby, while others state it is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are breastfeeding.

Can MONTEMAC FX TABLET be taken with other medications?

MONTEMAC FX TABLET can interact with certain medications. Avoid taking it with antacids containing magnesium and aluminum, as these can reduce its absorption if taken simultaneously (maintain at least a 2-hour gap). It may also interact with antibiotics like erythromycin, antifungal medications such as ketoconazole, and medicines used to control seizures like phenobarbital, or medications used to reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels such as gemfibrozil and rifampicin, which can affect the blood levels of Montemac FX. Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using MONTEMAC FX TABLET?

Several precautions should be observed:

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Driving & Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness and drowsiness, so avoid driving or engaging in activities requiring mental alertness until you know how it affects you.
• Kidney and Liver Disease: Use with caution if you have kidney or liver problems, as dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Fruit Juices: Avoid taking the tablet with fruit juices (like grapefruit, orange, or apple) as they may reduce its effectiveness.
• Allergy Tests: Inform your doctor if you are scheduled for an allergy skin test, as this medicine may interfere with the results and might need to be discontinued a few days prior.
• Children: MONTEMAC FX TABLET is generally not recommended for children below 12 or 15 years of age, depending on the specific formulation and doctor's advice.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of MONTEMAC FX TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should MONTEMAC FX TABLET be stored?

MONTEMAC FX TABLET should be stored at room temperature (below 30°C or between 10ºC to 25ºC), protected from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep the medicine out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not use it after the expiry date.