Indications
Singulair Granules is used to treat and prevent symptoms caused by asthma, such as wheezing and shortness of breath. It contains an active ingredient montelukast sodium, which is a leukotriene receptor antagonist. Montelukast is in a class of medications called leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs). It works by blocking the action of substances in the body that cause the symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Singulair Granules can also be used before exercise to prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. They are available in a 4mg oral granule form, which may be placed directly in the mouth or dissolved in 5ml of cold or room temperature baby formula or breast milk, or mixed in a spoonful of soft food, such as apple sauce, carrots, rice, or ice cream.
Use and Dosage
Singulair Granules can be taken orally with or without food as directed by your doctor. The dosage is age and condition-dependent, and there are three ways to consume it- swallow the granules plain, dissolve them in specific liquids, or mix them with a spoonful of soft food (like applesauce) before swallowing. It is recommended to take the dose within 15 minutes after opening the foil packet.
Take Singulair Granules at the same time each day. If you are taking Singulair Granules for asthma or for both asthma and allergies, take your dose in the evening. If you are taking Singulair Granules to prevent only allergies, take your dose either in the morning or the evening.
If you are taking Singulair Granules to prevent breathing problems during exercise, take your dose at least 2 hours before exercise. Do not change your dose or stop using Singulair Granules without consulting your doctor. Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours. Do not take a dose before exercise if you are already taking this medication daily for asthma or allergies. This may increase the risk of side effects.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Singulair Granules (Montelukast):
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Flu symptoms
- Headache
- Bed-wetting or loss of bladder control in children
- Cold symptoms (stuffy nose, sinus pain, cough, sore throat)
Serious Side Effects of Singulair Granules (Montelukast):
- Bruising
- Burning in your eyes and
- Ear pain
- Fever
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness
- Pain
- Severe tingling
- Skin pain followed by a red or purple rash that spreads to your upper body and causes blistering and peeling
- Skin rash
- Sore throat
- Swelling
- Swelling in your face or tongue
- Unusual changes in mood or behavior
- Warmth
Forms and Strength
Singulair Granules (Montelukast) is available in the following forms and strength
Singulair Granules: Powder
- 4mg
Cautions
- Serious neuropsychiatric events: Some people taking montelukast have experienced mood changes, agitation, aggression, hallucinations, depression, suicidal thoughts, and other neuropsychiatric events. Seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms while taking Singulair Granules.
- Known hypersensitivity: Do not take Singulair if you are allergic to montelukast sodium or any of the other ingredients in the granules.
- Acute asthma attacks: Singulair should not be used to treat acute asthma attacks. It should be used regularly to prevent symptoms of chronic asthma.
- Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment is required in severe hepatic impairment.
- Pediatric patients: The safety and effectiveness of Singulair Granules in pediatric patients younger than 6 months of age have not been established.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of Singulair Granules during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, and the benefits of the medication should be weighed against the potential risks.
- Phenylketonuria (PKU): Singulair Chewable Tablets contain phenylalanine, which can be harmful or dangerous for people with PKU who cannot metabolize this amino acid.
- Drug interactions: Montelukast may interact with other medications, including rifampin and phenobarbital.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I miss a dose of Singulair Granules?
If you miss a dose of Singulair Granules, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Can Singulair Granules be used in children?
Yes, Singulair Granules can be used in children over 6 months of age for the treatment of asthma and in children over 2 years of age for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.
Can Singulair Granules be crushed or mixed with liquids instead of soft food?
No, Singulair Granules should not be crushed or mixed with liquids. They should only be mixed with a spoonful of soft food, such as applesauce or baby food, and swallowed immediately.
How long does it take for Singulair Granules to start working?
Singulair Granules may start to work within a few hours, but it may take several weeks to experience the full benefits of the medication.
Can Singulair Granules be used for exercise-induced asthma?
Yes, Singulair Granules may be used to prevent asthma symptoms that are triggered by exercise. However, it is best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
Resources
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600014.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/singulair-montelukast-oral-granules.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/singulair-drug.htm
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/020829s049,020830s051,021409s027lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6485-6277/singulair-oral/montelukast-granules-oral/details
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