Yes, you can usually take Montair LC after LASIK surgery, but only under the guidance of your ophthalmologist or surgeon.
While it’s generally considered safe for most patients, a few important factors need to be considered first, especially if you’re prone to allergies or dry eyes.
In this blog, we’ll walk through what Montair LC is, how it might affect your LASIK recovery, and what you should keep in mind before using it. Whether you’ve already had LASIK or are planning the procedure, knowing how medications interact with your healing process is key.
What Is Montair LC?
Understanding the Medication
Montair LC is a combination drug used to treat allergic conditions like asthma, hay fever, and allergic rhinitis. It contains two main ingredients:
- Montelukast: A leukotriene receptor antagonist that helps reduce airway inflammation and is not known to significantly affect tear production.
- Levocetirizine: An antihistamine that relieves allergy symptoms but may reduce tear production in some people.
It’s a commonly prescribed medication for people who suffer from seasonal or dust allergies, sinus issues, or mild asthma.
Why Would Someone Consider Taking Montair LC After LASIK?
Allergy Relief Post-Surgery
LASIK doesn’t just correct vision—it also changes the surface of your eye. As your cornea heals, it can become more sensitive, especially if you’re exposed to allergens like pollen, pet dander, or pollution.
Many patients who are already taking Montair LC wonder if they can continue post-surgery. Others may consider starting it if allergy symptoms worsen during recovery.
Here’s when Montair LC might be considered after LASIK:
- If you have seasonal allergies during your recovery period.
- If you’re experiencing sinus pressure or nasal congestion.
- If you suffer from chronic allergic rhinitis.
That said, using antihistamines—especially systemic ones like Levocetirizine—can cause mild dryness in the eyes, which is an issue we’ll explore in detail below.
Is Montair LC Safe After LASIK Surgery?
The General Medical Opinion
Montair LC is generally considered safe after LASIK, but with precautions. Your ophthalmologist will weigh the benefits against any potential side effects, especially the risk of worsened dry eye symptoms.
Here’s a closer look at each component:
Montelukast
- Not known to affect tear production
- Unlikely to interfere with corneal healing
- Safe for continued use in most patients after LASIK
Levocetirizine
- Can contribute to dry eye symptoms
- May affect tear film stability during healing
- Use with caution, especially if you’re already experiencing post-op dryness
Always check with your LASIK surgeon before starting or continuing Montair LC. Your post-op care may already include eye drops to combat dryness, and your doctor might adjust your treatment based on how you’re healing.
How Does Montair LC Affect Eye Dryness?
Dry Eye Is a Common LASIK Side Effect
Dry eye is one of the most common short-term issues after LASIK. Your surgeon may prescribe:
- Preservative-free artificial tears
- Lubricating gels or ointments
- Anti-inflammatory eye drops like cyclosporine
Levocetirizine may worsen dry eye symptoms in some people by reducing tear production or affecting tear film stability.
If you’re already dealing with:
- Redness
- Burning or stinging
- Foreign body sensation
- Blurry vision due to dryness
…then it’s best to speak with your doctor about pausing Montair LC or switching to a non-drying alternative.
When to Use Montair LC After LASIK?
Best Practices and Timing
Here’s how you can safely use Montair LC after LASIK:
OK to Use:
- If your doctor approves and you’re not experiencing dry eye.
- For managing seasonal allergies or sinus issues.
- To help manage allergy symptoms like itching or sneezing, which could otherwise lead to eye rubbing, a risk after LASIK.
Use With Caution:
- If you have moderate to severe dry eye symptoms.
- If you’re on multiple systemic medications that cause dryness.
- If you’re using strong anti-inflammatory post-op drops.
Timing Tip:
If your doctor approves, waiting 3–5 days after surgery before resuming Montair LC can help monitor for dry eye symptoms.
Should You Stop Montair LC Before LASIK?
Pre-Surgery Considerations
If you’re taking Montair LC regularly for allergy or asthma control, discuss it with your surgeon during your LASIK consultation. In most cases, there’s no need to stop Montelukast before surgery, but Levocetirizine might be paused temporarily if you’re at risk for dry eye.
Don’t stop any medication without medical guidance. Your allergy control is important to ensure you’re not rubbing your eyes or sneezing during recovery, which could interfere with corneal healing.
Alternatives to Montair LC After LASIK
Other Allergy Relief Options
If your surgeon advises against Montair LC due to dryness, there are other ways to manage allergy symptoms during recovery:
- Nasal sprays (like fluticasone or mometasone): Target nasal symptoms without affecting the eyes
- Saline rinses: Clean out allergens without drug side effects
- Cool compresses: Help reduce eye itch without rubbing
- Hydrating antihistamines (like loratadine or fexofenadine): Sometimes better tolerated than levocetirizine
Your eye doctor might also suggest:
- Anti-allergy eye drops
- Omega-3 supplements to support tear production
Comparing Montair LC Use Before vs After LASIK
| Factor | Before LASIK | After LASIK |
| Montelukast safety | Safe, non-drying, and commonly used | Usually safe with no direct effect on eyes |
| Levocetirizine safety | Usually well-tolerated | May cause or worsen dry eye symptoms |
| Risk of dry eye | Low (unless preexisting dryness) | Higher due to post-op healing needs |
| Need for medical review | Optional | Essential before continuing post-op |
| Preferred alternative | None required | Switch to nasal spray or non-drying option |
What Do LASIK Surgeons Recommend?
Realistic Clinical Guidance
Most LASIK surgeons follow a conservative approach:
- Review all systemic medications prior to surgery.
- Prioritise minimising anything that could impair tear production.
- Temporarily stop or adjust allergy medications if dryness becomes an issue.
Your surgeon may also test your tear film or perform a Schirmer’s test to check how well your eyes are lubricating naturally before giving the green light on antihistamines like Montair LC.
Final Takeaway: Shall You Take Montair LC After LASIK?
Yes, you can take Montair LC after LASIK, but only if your surgeon approves it—especially due to the Levocetirizine component, which may contribute to dry eyes. Montelukast is not a problem, but dry eye management is critical during recovery.
If you’re dealing with allergy symptoms, there are safer alternatives that won’t interfere with healing. The best approach is to discuss your symptoms and current medications with your eye doctor so they can personalise your care.
Still unsure? Ask your LASIK provider before resuming any allergy medication. Your vision recovery is worth the extra caution.
