MONTULAR

Indications

• Prophylaxis of asthma
• Management of seasonal allergic rhinitis
• Symptomatic relief of seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients with asthma

Dosage

Adults: 10 mg once daily, taken in the evening.

Mechanism of action

Montelukast binds with high affinity and selectivity to the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor type-1 (CysLT1). This action inhibits the physiological effects of cysteinyl leukotrienes (like LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4), which include bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, and eosinophil recruitment. By blocking these receptors, montelukast effectively reduces the bronchoconstriction and other symptoms associated with asthma and allergic rhinitis.

Pharmacodynamics

Montelukast exhibits significant affinity for the CysLT1 receptor, preferentially blocking the effects of leukotriene LTD4 at doses as low as 5 mg. Clinical studies have shown that montelukast can inhibit both early and late phase bronchoconstriction due to antigen exposure by approximately 75% and 57%, respectively. The onset of bronchodilation can occur within 2 hours of oral administration, and its effects can be additive when used with beta agonists. However, doses above 10 mg daily do not provide additional clinical benefits in adults.

Pharmacokinetics

Montelukast is well absorbed following oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 3 to 4 hours. It is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily via cytochrome P450 enzymes. The half-life of montelukast is approximately 2.7 to 5.5 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing. It is eliminated via bile, with a small percentage excreted unchanged in urine. Special populations, such as those with hepatic impairment, may require caution, although specific dosage adjustments have not been established.

Adverse effects

• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Rash
• Changes in mood or behavior
• Sleep disturbances

Interactions

• Opicapone: Severe (increases exposure)
• Selpercatinib: Severe (increases exposure)
• Deferasirox: Unknown (increases exposure)
• Leflunomide: Unknown (increases exposure)
• Mifepristone: Unknown (increases exposure)
• Mitotane: Unknown (decreases exposure)
• Teriflunomide: Unknown (increases exposure)
• Rifampicin: Unknown (decreases exposure)

Precautions

• Caution in patients with hepatic impairment
• Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
• Consider risk of mood changes and behavioral side effects

Pregnancy

Manufacturer advises to avoid use during pregnancy due to limited information available.

Breast-feeding

Manufacturer advises to avoid during breastfeeding, especially in the first few days after birth due to potential transfer of antibodies to the infant.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Tablets: 10 mg (adults and children over 15 years)
• Chewable tablets: 5 mg (children 6–14 years)
• Granules: 4 mg (children 6 months–5 years)

Indications

• Constipation
• Dietary fiber supplementation
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Diverticular disease
• Weight management

Dosage

Children: Refer to appropriate guidelines for specific dosage; generally taken with adequate fluid intake.

Adults: Refer to appropriate guidelines for specific dosage; generally taken with adequate fluid intake.

Mechanism of action

Cellulose acts primarily as a bulk-forming laxative. It absorbs water in the intestines, which increases stool bulk and stimulates peristalsis, thus facilitating bowel movements. Additionally, cellulose is not digestible by human enzymes, leading to fermentation by gut bacteria, which may enhance gut health and alter gut microbiota composition.

Pharmacodynamics

Cellulose increases stool weight and frequency of bowel movements. It works by retaining water in the intestines, leading to softer stools and improved passage through the gastrointestinal tract. The bulking effect of cellulose can help alleviate constipation and promote overall digestive health. It may also play a role in cholesterol reduction and glycemic control through its effects on digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Pharmacokinetics

Cellulose is not absorbed into the bloodstream due to its indigestible nature. Instead, it passes through the gastrointestinal tract, where it adds bulk to the stool. Its fermentation by colonic bacteria produces short-chain fatty acids, which may have beneficial effects on colon health. The onset of action for cellulose as a laxative can vary but is generally within 24 to 72 hours after ingestion.

Adverse effects

• Bloating
• Flatulence
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal disorders.
• Monitor for potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Pregnancy

Cellulose is generally considered safe during pregnancy as it is a non-toxic, indigestible fiber.

Breast-feeding

Cellulose is also considered safe during breastfeeding; it is excreted in breast milk in negligible amounts.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Formulations

• Powder
• Capsules
• Tablets
• Granules

Indications

• Tablet formulation
• Capsule formulation
• Rapid release of active pharmaceutical ingredients

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product guidelines for exact formulations. Typically used in concentrations of 1-5% in solid dosage forms.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines for exact formulations. Typically used in concentrations of 1-5% in solid dosage forms.

Mechanism of action

Crosscarmellose sodium works by swelling upon contact with water, leading to the rapid disintegration of the dosage form. This process increases the surface area of the active ingredient, promoting faster dissolution and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. It does not possess any pharmacological activity of its own but acts as a functional excipient.

Pharmacodynamics

As a disintegrant, crosscarmellose sodium aids in the breakdown of solid dosage forms, allowing for quicker release and absorption of active ingredients. Its effectiveness is influenced by factors such as the formulation's composition, the presence of other excipients, and the conditions within the gastrointestinal environment.

Pharmacokinetics

Crosscarmellose sodium is not absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and does not undergo metabolism. It functions primarily as a physical agent that enhances the disintegration of the dosage form. Its safety profile is well-established, and it is considered non-toxic and non-irritating.

Pregnancy

Crosscarmellose is considered safe for use during pregnancy as it is not systemically absorbed, but consult a healthcare provider for specific cases.

Breast-feeding

Crosscarmellose is not absorbed systemically and is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult a healthcare provider for specific cases.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat.

Formulations

• Tablets
• Capsules
• Powders

Indications

• Cleansing agent in topical formulations
• Emulsifying agent in cosmetic products
• Foaming agent in shampoos and body washes

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product formulations for appropriate concentrations and application methods.

Adults: Refer to specific product formulations for appropriate concentrations and application methods.

Mechanism of action

Lauryl sulfate functions as an anionic surfactant. It reduces the surface tension between different substances, allowing for better spreading and wetting. In the context of cleansing, it facilitates the removal of dirt and oils from the skin and hair by emulsifying these substances, thus making them easier to rinse away with water.

Pharmacodynamics

As a surfactant, lauryl sulfate displays properties that can disrupt cellular membranes and alter permeability. This mechanism is beneficial in enhancing the penetration of other therapeutic agents in topical formulations. However, its irritant potential on skin and mucous membranes should be noted, as it can lead to dryness and irritation with prolonged exposure.

Pharmacokinetics

Lauryl sulfate is primarily applied topically and is not intended for systemic absorption. When used in formulations, it acts locally at the site of application. Its absorption through the skin is minimal, and any systemic exposure is limited. Metabolism and excretion pathways are not well-defined for topical applications, as it is largely washed away after use.

Pregnancy

Safety during pregnancy has not been established. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Breast-feeding

Unknown whether lauryl is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administering to nursing mothers.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Indications

• Used as an excipient in tablet formulations
• Used as a bulking agent in capsule formulations
• Used in food products as a thickener or stabilizer

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product guidelines as dosage will depend on the formulation and the active ingredients.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines as dosage will depend on the formulation and the active ingredients.

Mechanism of action

Microcrystalline cellulose acts as a non-digestible filler that enhances the flow properties of powders during the manufacturing of tablets and capsules. It does not have a direct pharmacological action on the body but ensures that the active ingredients are effectively delivered to the patient.

Pharmacodynamics

As a non-active ingredient, microcrystalline cellulose does not exert pharmacodynamic effects typical of active pharmaceutical ingredients. Its primary role is to provide a stable and consistent matrix for the drug, facilitating the release of the active compound once ingested.

Pharmacokinetics

Microcrystalline cellulose is not absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract; it passes through the digestive system largely unchanged. It adds bulk to the stool, which may aid in promoting regular bowel movements. The substance is excreted in feces, where it contributes to dietary fiber intake.

Pregnancy

Data regarding the use of microcrystalline cellulose during pregnancy is limited. It is advisable to consult with healthcare professionals before use.

Breast-feeding

Microcrystalline cellulose is considered safe during breastfeeding, as it is not absorbed systemically.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Indications

• Tablet coating
• Granule coating
• Improvement of drug stability
• Taste masking
• Aesthetic enhancement of pharmaceuticals

Dosage

Children: Dosage will depend on the specific formulation and active ingredients of the medication being coated. Refer to the specific product information for guidance.

Adults: Dosage will depend on the specific formulation and active ingredients of the medication being coated. Refer to the specific product information for guidance.

Mechanism of action

Opadry functions primarily as a coating polymer that adheres to the surface of tablets or granules, creating a protective layer. This layer can control the release of the active ingredient and protect it from environmental factors such as moisture and light. The specific composition of Opadry can vary, but it typically includes film-forming agents, plasticizers, and colorants that work together to achieve the desired coating characteristics.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of Opadry is largely focused on its physical and chemical properties rather than specific biological interactions. The coating alters the dissolution characteristics of the drug, potentially leading to modified release profiles. This can enhance drug bioavailability or control the release rate of the active ingredient, thereby impacting the therapeutic effect.

Pharmacokinetics

As a coating agent, Opadry itself is not absorbed into the systemic circulation and does not have pharmacokinetic properties related to absorption, distribution, metabolism, or excretion of an active pharmaceutical ingredient. Its impact on pharmacokinetics is indirect, as it affects how the active drug is released and absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.

Pregnancy

Opadry is a film-coating agent, and specific studies on its effects during pregnancy are not well-documented. Generally, it is advisable to use medications cautiously during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

Breast-feeding

Limited data are available regarding the safety of Opadry during breastfeeding. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Opadry OY - a coating system for oral solid dosage forms
• Opadry II - a polymer-based coating system for tablet and capsule applications

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product formulations for guidelines, as dosing can vary based on the formulation and therapeutic context.

Adults: Refer to specific product formulations for guidelines, as dosing can vary based on the formulation and therapeutic context.

Mechanism of action

Stearates, such as magnesium stearate, function primarily by reducing friction during tablet manufacturing and enhancing the flow properties of powders. They do not exert a therapeutic pharmacological action in the body but facilitate the delivery of other active substances.

Pharmacodynamics

Given that stearates are primarily excipients, they do not exhibit traditional pharmacodynamic properties as active drugs do. Their role is to optimize the formulation of drugs, enhancing physical characteristics such as texture and consistency, which indirectly affect the performance of the active ingredients.

Pharmacokinetics

Stearates are poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract due to their lipid nature. When ingested, they may pass through the digestive system with minimal systemic absorption. Their primary action occurs at the site of formulation, where they assist in the dispersion and release of active ingredients rather than being metabolized or exerting effects in the body.

Pregnancy

The safety of sterate during pregnancy has not been established. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Breast-feeding

It is not known whether sterate is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administering to nursing mothers.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Pregnancy

No specific data available, consult a healthcare professional.

Breast-feeding

No specific data available, consult a healthcare professional.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from light.

Mechanism of action

Cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLT) like LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4, among others, are eicosanoids released by a variety of cells like mast cells and eosinophils. When such CysLT bind to corresponding CysLT receptors like CysLT type-1 receptors located on respiratory airway smooth muscle cells, airway macrophages, and on various pro-inflammatory cells like eosinophils and some specific myeloid stem cells activities that facilitate the pathophysiology of asthma and allergic rhinitis are stimulated. In particular, CysLT-mediated airway bronchoconstriction, occluding mucous secretion, vascular permeability, and eosinophil recruitment are all types of effects that facilitate asthma. Alternatively, in allergic rhinitis, CysLTs are released by the nasal mucosa when exposed to allergens during both early and late phase reactions and participate in eliciting symptoms of allergic rhinitis like a congested nose and airway. Subsequently, montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that binds with high affinity and selectivity to the CysLT type 1 receptor, which consequently assists in inhibiting any physiological actions of CysLTs like LTC4, LTD4, and LTE4 at the receptor that may facilitate asthma or allergic rhinitis. Montelukast inhibits bronchoconstriction due to antigen challenge. Montelukast is a selective leukotriene receptor antagonist of the cysteinyl leukotriene CysLT1 receptor. The cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTC4 , LTD4, LTE4) are products of arachidonic acid metabolism that are released from various cells, including mast cells and eosinophils. They bind to cysteinyl leukotriene receptors (CysLT) found in the human airway. Binding of cysteinyl leukotrienes to leukotriene receptors has been correlated with the pathophysiology of asthma, including airway edema, smooth muscle contraction, and altered cellular activity associated with the inflammatory process, factors that contribute to the signs and symptoms of asthma. Montelukast binding to the CysLT1, receptor is high-affinity and selective, preferring the CysLT1 receptor to other pharmacologically important airway receptors, such as the prostanoid, cholinergic, or beta-adrenergic receptor. Montelukcast inhibits physiologic actions of LTD4 at the CysLT1 receptors, without any agonist activity. Because of the role of leukotrienes in the pathogenesis of asthma, modification of leukotriene activity may be used to reduce airway symptoms, decrease bronchial smooth muscle tone, and improve asthma control. Inhibition of leukotriene-mediated effects may be achieved by drugs that interrupt 5-lipoxygenase activity and prevent formation of leukotrienes (e.g., zileuton) or by antagonism of leukotriene activity at specific receptor sites in the airway (e.g., montelukast, zafirlukast). The antagonist activity of montelukast is selective, competitive, and reversible. Montelukast competitively inhibits the action of LTD4 at a subgroup of CysLT receptors (CysLT1) in airway smooth muscle. In vitro, montelukast possesses affinity for the CysLT1 receptor that is similar to that of LTD4. In in vitro studies, montelukast antagonized contraction of isolated animal smooth muscle produced by LTD4, but did not antagonize contraction produced by LTC4. In animal studies, montelukast antagonized contraction of airway smooth muscle produced by LTD4 or antigen.

Pharmacodynamics

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that demonstrates a marked affinity and selectivity to the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor type-1 in preference to many other crucial airway receptors like the prostanoid, cholinergic, or beta-adrenergic receptors. As a consequence, the agent can elicit substantial blockage of LTD4 leukotriene-mediated bronchoconstriction with doses as low as 5 mg. Moreover, a placebo-controlled, crossover study (n=12) demonstrated that montelukast is capable of inhibiting early and late phase bronchoconstriction caused by antigen challenge by 75% and 57% respectively. In particular, it has been documented that montelukast can cause bronchodilation as soon as within 2 hours of oral administration. This action can also be additive to the bronchodilation caused by the concomitant use of a beta agonist. Nevertheless, clinical investigations performed with adults 15 years of age and older revealed that no additional clinical benefit is obtained when doses of montelukast greater than 10 mg a day are used. Additionally, in clinical trials with adults and pediatric asthmatic patients aged 6 to 14 years, it was also determined that montelukast can reduce mean peripheral blood eosinophils by about 13% to 15% from baseline in comparison to placebo during double-blind treatment periods. At the same time, in patients aged 15 years and older who were experiencing seasonal allergic rhinitis, the use of montelukast caused a median reduction of 13% in peripheral blood eosinophil counts when compared to placebo as well.