The digestive system is still a system that reproduces or shows symptoms and signs for which it is not responsible. A clear example of this are the symptoms of malaise, vomiting, tiredness, anorexia, in the presence of a cardiac branch block, which can only be diagnosed by auscultation or by taking the pulse.
These symptoms, which we call “screen symptoms”, can also appear as a consequence of side effects produced by the intake of drugs or other treatments.
The effects of Montelukast on the digestive system
A recent study has shown psychiatric and digestive side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and elevated liver enzymes caused by Montelikast, a drug commonly used in asthma and other respiratory processes.
Other side effects:
- Depression
- Nightmares
- Increased irritability and aggressiveness in children
- Fever
- Skin rash
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Sleep disturbances and psychiatric symptoms have also been described. In 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration mandated that the labeling of montelukast and other drugs in this class list neuropsychiatric symptoms such as depression and suicidality as possible adverse reactions.
Montelukast has also been linked to allergic granulomatous angiitis, also known as Churg-Strauss syndrome. This is a rare autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of small and medium-sized blood vessels in people with airway allergies.
The condition can affect several organs, especially the lungs and digestive tract, and in severe cases can lead to cell death or necrosis. It is not a contagious disease, nor is it inherited, but it is often a misdiagnosed disease.
Churg-Strauss syndrome is a chronic, lifelong disease whose therapy includes the administration of glucocorticoids such as prednisone and other immunosuppressive drugs such as azathioprine and cyclophosphamide.