Montair LC

What is Montair LC?

Montair LC is a combination of two well-known allergy medicines: montelukast and levocetirizine. Together, they target bothersome allergy symptoms that can affect your routine and sleep. If seasonal allergies, pet dander, dust mites, or year-round allergic rhinitis are wearing you down, your prescriber may recommend this combo when an antihistamine alone does not do the job.

The fixed-dose combination called Montair LC is common in some countries. In the U.S., your pharmacist may dispense the two ingredients as separate generic prescriptions rather than a single combined tablet. The active ingredients are the same, so the effect can be similar when taken as directed. Availability varies by state and pharmacy, so your pharmacist can guide you.

What Montair LC is used for

• Seasonal allergies, also called hay fever
• Perennial allergic rhinitis from dust mites or pet dander
• Nighttime allergy symptoms that wake you up or make it hard to fall asleep
• Allergy-related nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes
• As an add-on for people with asthma who also have allergies, if prescribed by a clinician

Important: Montair LC does not replace a rescue inhaler. It will not treat sudden asthma attacks or severe shortness of breath. Keep your quick-relief inhaler with you if you have asthma, and follow your asthma action plan.

How it works

• Levocetirizine is a modern antihistamine that helps control sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes. It tends to be longer-acting than older allergy medicines. Some people may still feel a bit drowsy, so many prefer taking it in the evening.
• Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor blocker. Leukotrienes are chemicals in the body that contribute to swelling, mucus, and airway tightness. Blocking them can help reduce congestion, pressure, and nighttime symptoms that do not fully respond to antihistamines alone.

Why doctors prescribe it

• You have allergy symptoms that persist despite an antihistamine
• Your allergies flare at night and disrupt sleep
• You have both allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms, and your clinician wants a single daily plan to simplify things

A heads-up about US guidance: The FDA includes a boxed warning for montelukast about potential mental health side effects like mood changes and, rarely, serious behavior changes. Because of this, many clinicians reserve montelukast for allergic rhinitis when other treatments have not worked well or are not tolerated. If you notice mood changes, sleep disturbances, or unusual thoughts, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Who should talk to a doctor first

• Anyone who has had a reaction to montelukast, levocetirizine, or related medicines like cetirizine
• People with kidney problems, since levocetirizine is cleared through the kidneys and dosing may need adjustment
• Those with serious liver disease, since montelukast is processed by the liver
• Individuals with a history of mood disorders, depression, anxiety, or sleep problems
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. Your provider will help weigh benefits and risks
• Children. Doses vary by age and weight, so always follow pediatric guidance

How to take Montair LC

• Take exactly as prescribed. Many people take one dose in the evening since that timing can help with nighttime symptoms and limit daytime drowsiness.
• You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, try a light snack.
• Try to take it at the same time every day for steady relief.
• Do not split or crush tablets unless your doctor or pharmacist says it is okay.
• If your child has a chewable or liquid form, use the dosing device provided and follow your pediatrician’s instructions closely.

Missed dose

• If you miss a dose and it is still the same day, take it when you remember.
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
• Do not double up.

Montair LC Side Effects

• Drowsiness or tiredness
• Dry mouth or dry throat
• Headache
• Stomach discomfort or nausea
• Cough or mild sore throat

Less common but important side effects

• Mood changes, agitation, trouble sleeping, anxiety, or depression
• Unusual dreams or vivid nightmares
• Rash or hives
• Severe dizziness
• Signs of an allergic reaction like swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or trouble breathing

If you notice mental health changes or an allergic reaction, stop the medication and contact your clinician right away. Call 911 for severe symptoms.

Drug and alcohol interactions

• Alcohol and sedatives can increase drowsiness. Go easy on alcohol and do not drive or operate machinery until you know how you feel on this medicine.
• Montelukast can be affected by certain medicines. Rifampin may lower montelukast levels. Gemfibrozil can raise montelukast levels. Always share your full medication list with your pharmacist or doctor.
• Ask before combining with sleep aids, anxiety meds, opioid pain relievers, or other antihistamines.

What to expect and when you will feel better

• Some relief may be noticeable within hours, especially on runny nose and itching.
• Nasal congestion often improves after a few doses with steady daily use.
• For persistent symptoms, give it several days of consistent dosing. If you are not feeling better after a week or two, check in with your prescriber to adjust your plan.

Tips for better results

• Take it in the evening if drowsiness is an issue for you.
• Consider combining with non-drug measures. Rinse your nose with a saline spray, shower before bed during pollen season, and use high-quality air filters at home.
• Avoid your known triggers when you can. Pollen counts, pet dander, and dust mites are common triggers.
• If you wear contact lenses, keep your eyes lubricated or switch to glasses on high-pollen days.

Who it may be right for

• Adults and teens with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis
• People whose symptoms are worse at night
• Those who have tried antihistamines alone without enough relief
• Patients with both asthma and allergies, when a clinician recommends it as part of a broader asthma and allergy plan

Who it may not be right for

• Anyone with a known allergy to either ingredient
• People who experienced mood changes on montelukast in the past
• Those who need quick relief of an asthma attack
• Individuals with severe kidney impairment without adjusted dosing guidance

Storage and handling

• Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
• Keep in the original bottle and away from children and pets.
• When traveling, keep it in your carry-on with a copy of your prescription.

Available strengths and forms

In markets where the combined product is sold, common strengths include:

• Tablets for adults: montelukast 10 mg plus levocetirizine 5 mg
• Pediatric options: combinations such as montelukast 4 mg plus levocetirizine 2.5 mg in chewable tablets or oral solution
• Some regions may also offer a combination with montelukast 5 mg plus levocetirizine 2.5 mg for certain pediatric age groups

Availability and exact strengths can vary by manufacturer and country. In the U.S., typical separate generic strengths are:

• Montecip LC (Montelukast and Levocetirizine)
• Levocetirizine tablets: 5 mg for adults and teens, with liquid formulations for children

Always follow your prescriber’s instructions. Do not substitute strengths without medical guidance.

How this fits into your allergy toolkit

For many people, allergy control usually starts with an oral antihistamine like cetirizine, levocetirizine, or loratadine, and often a nasal steroid like fluticasone for congestion. Montelukast is sometimes added when symptoms persist or when asthma and allergies overlap. If you are mostly bothered by nasal congestion, a daily intranasal steroid plus an antihistamine can be very effective. Montair LC can be an option when your clinician wants the antihistamine and montelukast combined into a single routine.

Cost, insurance, and access

• Insurance coverage varies. If the fixed-dose combo is not covered, your pharmacy may suggest separate generics.
• Generic montelukast and levocetirizine are usually affordable. Prices still vary by pharmacy and location.
• If cost is a concern, ask your prescriber about using the separate generic pills, mail-order options, or quantity discounts.

Everyday safety reminders

• Do not mix with other antihistamines unless your clinician says it is okay.
• Check all labels for duplicate ingredients in cold or allergy combos.
• If you feel too sleepy during the day, try evening dosing or talk with your provider about adjusting your plan.
• If you develop new or worsening mood or behavior changes, stop montelukast and contact your prescriber promptly.

Who should call the doctor right away

• You have chest tightness or wheezing that does not improve with your rescue inhaler
• Swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe rash or hives
• Mood changes, agitation, or thoughts of self-harm
• Persistent drowsiness that affects your ability to drive or work

FAQs About Montair LC

1. Is Montair LC available in the United States?

• The exact fixed-dose combo tablet may not be widely available in the U.S. Pharmacies often dispense the two ingredients as separate generic prescriptions. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist about the best way to fill it based on your location.

2. When should I take Montair LC?

• Evening works well for many people, especially if drowsiness is an issue or your symptoms peak at night. Take it at the same time each day. Follow your prescriber’s instructions.

3. Can I drink alcohol with this medication?

• It is best to limit alcohol. Levocetirizine can make you drowsy, and alcohol can intensify that effect. If you choose to drink, keep it light and see how you feel before driving or operating machinery.

4. Is this safe for kids?

• Pediatric dosing is different and depends on age and formulation. Children often use chewables or liquid forms of montelukast and levocetirizine. Only use in children if your pediatrician has given clear dosing instructions.

5. What if I have asthma too?

• Montelukast can help allergy-related asthma control for some patients as part of a broader plan. It will not replace a rescue inhaler for sudden symptoms. Keep using your asthma controller and quick-relief medicines as prescribed and discuss any changes with your clinician.