Description:

Zyfen-M tablets  is a combination medication containing fexofenadine hydrochloride (an antihistamine) and montelukast sodium (a leukotriene receptor antagonist). It is used to provide relief from symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever), chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives), and asthma-related allergic conditions. The dual action blocks histamine effects (reducing sneezing, runny nose, itching) and leukotriene-mediated inflammation (reducing bronchoconstriction and mucus production). It offers non-sedating, once-daily relief for seasonal/perennial allergies and allergic asthma support.

Prescription: Prescription-only (Rx). Requires a doctor’s prescription (typically from a general practitioner, allergist, or pulmonologist) with allergy/asthma assessment. In Ghana, available through pharmacies (imported generic).

Therapeutic Category:

Antiallergic / Antihistamine + Leukotriene receptor antagonist combination for allergic rhinitis and asthma adjunct.

Active Ingredients/Composition: Each tablet contains:

• Fexofenadine hydrochloride 120 mg or 180 mg (antihistamine; non-sedating H1 blocker).
• Montelukast sodium equivalent to montelukast 10 mg (leukotriene D4 receptor antagonist). Excipients: Standard tablet components (e.g., microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, film-coating agents; refer to label for full list).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant: Tablets (typically 120 mg fexofenadine + 10 mg montelukast or 180 mg fexofenadine + 10 mg montelukast; pack of 10 tablets common; “Zyfen-M” denotes montelukast combination variant of Luex’s Zyfen range).

Consume Type:

Oral (tablet; swallow whole with water; can be taken with or without food).

Directions/Usage: Adults and adolescents ≥15 years: 1 tablet once daily (evening preferred for montelukast effect). Take consistently; for allergic rhinitis/asthma control. Do not exceed dose. Use as prescribed; not for acute asthma attacks (use rescue inhaler). Follow doctor’s instructions; regular monitoring for asthma/allergy control.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Upper respiratory infection symptoms
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Nausea, abdominal pain
• Drowsiness (mild, less than older antihistamines)
• Rare: Liver enzyme elevation, mood changes (montelukast neuropsychiatric risk). Most mild/transient; serious rare: Severe allergic reactions, neuropsychiatric events (anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts—monitor closely).

Package Type:

Blister packs of 10 tablets (often 1×10 or 3×10 in carton; film-coated tablets, color-coded by strength).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 25-30°C), in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep in original packaging. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Montelukast: Monitor for neuropsychiatric events (mood changes, suicidal ideation—report immediately).
• Contraindicated in hypersensitivity to components.
• Caution in severe liver impairment (montelukast dose adjustment), phenylketonuria (aspartame in some formulations).
• Not for acute asthma relief (use short-acting bronchodilator).
• Pregnancy: Use if benefits outweigh risks (Category B/C). Breastfeeding: Caution.
• Interactions: Avoid strong CYP3A4 inducers (reduce efficacy).
• Report persistent/worsening symptoms or mood changes promptly.

Product Substitutes: Other fexofenadine + montelukast combinations in Ghana: Montair-FX (Cipla), Montelukast + Fexofenadine generics, or brands like Montair Plus, Montas-FX. Alternatives: Separate fexofenadine (Zyfen) + montelukast (Singulair generics) or other antihistamine/leukotriene combos. Consult allergist/pharmacist.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Luex Healthcare Ltd.

Country of Origin:

United Kingdom