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Delayed Onset of Neuropsychiatric Effects Associated with Montelukast

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  13 June 2014

Fintan Byrne*
Affiliation:
University Hospital Galwayand National University of Ireland Galway, Ireland
Bolarinwa Oluwole
Affiliation:
London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
Vanessa Whyte
Affiliation:
Castle St Surgery, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon, Ireland
Sabina Fahy
Affiliation:
St. Brigids Hospital, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, Ireland
Delia McGuinness
Affiliation:
CAMHS, Ballard House, Galway, Ireland
*
*Correspondence Email: fintanbyrne@gmail.com

Abstract

Montelukast (a leukotriene receptor antagonist) is a commonly prescribed medication used in the management of asthma in both children and adults. It has been associated with a possible increased risk of various neuropsychiatric events in post-marketing analyses of clinical trial data and surveillance studies. When establishing a link between a medication and side effects, it is usual to establish and enquire whether there is a chronological relationship between the commencement of the medication and the onset of the symptoms.

We report a case where a number of unusual neuropsychiatric events were reported several years after commencement of montelukast in a young boy who may have a genetic predisposition and a likely psychological trigger. There was complete resolution of these symptoms upon the withdrawal of montelukast.

Type
Case Report
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2012

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