A STUDY ON EFFICACY AND PREVALENCE OF MONTELUKAST THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH ALLERGIC RHINITIS IN HALDIA: A CLINICAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a common IgE-mediated inflammatory condition affecting nasal airways. Montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist, is used as an add-on therapy. This study evaluates its efficacy and prevalence in AR patients. Its prevalence tends to increase with age, especially in childhood and adolescence. AR is also more common in certain populations, including those with a family history of allergies, those born during pollen season, and those living in polluted areas Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 48 AR patients receiving montelukast (10 mg/day) for 4 weeks. Symptom scores (sneezing, rhinorrhoea, nasal obstruction, itching) were recorded. Statistical analysis included odds ratio (OR) for efficacy assessment. Results: Significant improvement was seen in 75% of patients (p<0.05). Urban residents (62.5%) and young adults (20-40 years, 58.3%) showed higher prevalence. Major risk factors included dust mites (70.8%) and pollen (54.2%). Conclusion: Montelukast effectively reduces AR symptoms, particularly in urban young adults, supporting its role as adjunctive therapy.