Assessing Physician Satisfaction and Therapeutic Efficacy of Montelukast (M-lucas): Insights from a Nationwide Survey of Specialist Doctors in Bangladesh

Author(s): H A M Nazmul Ahasan, Mohammod Shafiqul Islam, Md. Muksidul Haque, Zayer Rashid, Mohaiminur Rahman, SK. Omar Faruque, Radowan Ahmad AKM, Md Anamul Haque

Background: Montelukast is widely prescribed for mild-to-moderate asthma due to its safety and efficacy when administered orally. Despite healthcare challenges, its effectiveness in reducing asthma exacerbations and improving patients' quality of life is well-documented. Physicians highly regard Montelukast for its therapeutic benefits and ease of use, which enhance patient adherence and management outcomes.

Aim of the study: This study aims to assess physician satisfaction and perceptions regarding the therapeutic efficacy of Montelukast (M-lucas) through a nationwide survey of specialist doctors in Bangladesh.

Methods: This cross-sectional survey assessed physician satisfaction and therapeutic efficacy of Montelukast (M-lucas) among 594 specialist doctors in Bangladesh. Selected through stratified random sampling. A structured questionnaire covered prescription practices, therapeutic efficacy, satisfaction, and comparative analysis with other medications. Analysis using SPSS included descriptive statistics and summarized findings in tables.

Result: In this study, 594 physicians participated. The primary condition treated was cough variant asthma (79.63%). Regarding patient’s improvements in symptoms, most physicians observed benefits in decreasing breathing difficulties, chronic cough, wheezing, and night awakenings (97.47%, n=579), as well as improving sleep quality and reducing nighttime asthma (96.46%, n=573). Additionally, Montelukast was reported to lower the risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke (91.41%, n=543) and help prevent cardiovascular problems (86.03%, n=511) The majority of physicians expressed a high level of satisfaction, with 69.0% reporting being "highly satisfied" and 29.5% "satisfied." Only a small fraction (1.5%) rated their satisfaction as "average".

Conclusion: The study highlights Montelukast's (M-lucas) widespread use in Bangladesh for chronic respiratory conditions. Physicians favor it for its efficacy and safety, and patients are highly satisfied. Montelukast(Mlucas) is a crucial option for managing asthma and respiratory conditions in Bangladesh.