PBS Montelukast – Affordable Asthma Relief in Australia

If you have asthma or allergic rhinitis, you’ve probably heard of montelukast. It’s a once‑daily tablet that helps keep airways open and reduces flare‑ups. The good news is that many Australians can get it at a low cost through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Below you’ll find a quick guide on what montelukast does, who qualifies for PBS subsidised pricing, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

What is Montelukast?

Montelukast belongs to a class of drugs called leukotriene receptor antagonists. It works by blocking chemicals that cause inflammation in the lungs and nose. Doctors often prescribe it for:

• Persistent asthma that isn’t fully controlled by inhalers.
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) symptoms.
• Exercise‑induced bronchoconstriction.

The usual adult dose is one 10 mg tablet taken in the evening. Children 6‑14 years usually take a 5 mg tablet, while kids 2‑5 years may get a chewable 4 mg tablet. Most people notice fewer night‑time symptoms within a week, but it can take a month for full benefits.

Side effects are generally mild. Some people feel headache, stomach upset, or a slight change in mood. If you notice severe rash, swelling, or thoughts of self‑harm, call your doctor right away. Because montelukast is taken daily, it’s important to discuss any other medicines you use to avoid interactions.

Getting Montelukast on the PBS

To claim the PBS discount, you need a valid prescription from a doctor who registers the medication under the PBS code. Here’s a step‑by‑step rundown:

1. Ask your doctor if montelukast is PBS‑listed. Not every dose or brand is covered, so confirm the exact product.
2. Make sure your prescription includes your concessional card (if you have one). Concessional patients (e.g., seniors, low‑income earners) get a lower co‑payment.
3. Take the prescription to a pharmacy that participates in the PBS. Most chain and independent pharmacies are PBS‑eligible.
4. Confirm the co‑payment amount. As of 2025, standard patients pay around AU$5‑$10 per pack, while concessional patients pay about AU$2‑$3.
5. Ask the pharmacist about generic options. Generic montelukast tablets have the same active ingredient and are usually cheaper.

If you travel between states, the PBS price stays the same, but you’ll need a local pharmacy to fill the script. Some online pharmacies also claim to offer PBS pricing – just verify they’re registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) before you give them your details.

People often wonder why the price still feels high despite the subsidy. The main cost drivers are the pharmacy’s dispensing fee and any brand‑name premium. Switching to a generic version can shave a few dollars off each month, which adds up over time.

One practical tip: ask your pharmacist to print a “PBS receipt” that shows the exact amount you paid and the PBS item code. This helps you track your spending and makes it easier to claim any eligible rebates through your private health insurer.

Finally, keep an eye on the PBS schedule updates. The government reviews listings each year, and new generic manufacturers sometimes enter the market, driving prices down. Subscribing to a health newsletter or checking the official PBS website quarterly can keep you in the loop.

In short, montelukast is a solid option for managing asthma and allergy symptoms, and the PBS makes it reachable for most Australians. Talk to your doctor, grab the prescription, and follow the steps above to lock in the lowest price possible.