The National Institute for Food and Drug Surveillance (Invima) asked Colombians to exercise greater caution with the safe use of the medication known as Montelukast in patients and caregivers.
The health authority also made a preventive call to health professionals due to the adverse effects that would be generating this product.
“With the commitment to protect the health of Colombians and guarantee the safe use of medicines, calls on patients, caregivers and health professionals about the responsible use of Montelukas, a medication indicated for the treatment of respiratory conditions such as asthma and rhinitis which has been shown to be effective; However, it has been associated with certain neuropsychiatric effects in some patients,” indicated William Saza Londoño, coordinator of the Pharmacovigilance Group of the Directorate of Medicines and Biological Products of Invima.
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He said it’s important to remember that, in rare cases, Montelukas can cause adverse reactionssuch as sleep disorders, anxiety, mood changes, aggression and even suicidal ideations and hallucinations in people of various ages.
“For this reason, patients or healthcare professionals are advised to inform their doctor if they have a history of depression, anxiety or other neuropsychiatric disorders before starting treatment,” he said.
He stressed that It is necessary to carry out very strict monitoring to people who consume this medicine.
“Patient safety is our priority, which is why we call on Montelukas users, their caregivers and health professionals to be alert to any effects on mood or behavior during treatment,” he said. .
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He pointed out that these adverse effects are being reported in different patients, so they must be very attentive to bring them to the attention of the treating doctor.
“We want to remember that Monitoring these symptoms allows early and timely detection of possible adverse effects.thus protecting the health of those who need this medicine,” he noted.
Invima has also asked health professionals to inform patients and their families about these possible side effects, so that everyone can monitor any changes in psychological well-being and act in a timely manner.
“To strengthen safety, the entity recommends that professionals take a detailed medical history before starting treatment and suspend it if the patient presents new symptoms or a worsening of their neuropsychiatric condition. Also Family members and caregivers are encouraged to pay attention to any changes in their loved ones’ behavior. while using Montelukas, and inform the doctor in case of symptoms such as agitation, irritability, sudden mood changes or negative thoughts,” he explained.
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