Indications
Singulair, or Montelukast, is a prescription medication that is used to treat symptoms of asthma and allergies. Montelukast helps to make breathing easier. Singulair is a member of the leukotriene receptor antagonist class of drugs. It works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are substances in the body that can cause asthma and allergies.
Montelukast is also used before exercise to help prevent breathing problems during exercise (bronchospasm) and to reduce the number of times a quick-relief inhaler needs to be used. Additionally, montelukast is used to relieve symptoms of hay fever and allergic rhinitis.
Singulair may be used alone or in combination with other medications depending on individual needs. It is used for the management of chronic idiopathic urticaria in adults and children aged 12 months or older. It is designed to reduce inflammation in the lungs and nasal passages.
Uses and Dosage
Singulair is available in the form of a tablet taken orally once daily in the evening, with or without food and a glass of water. It can also be taken as two doses per day, with one dose in the morning and one dose in the evening. The recommended dosage for adults and children over age 15 is one 10mg tablet per day.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Montelukast
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Rash
- Liver effect
- Indigestions
Rare but Serious Side Effects of Montelukast
- Behavior change
- Aggressive behavior
- white blood cell count
- Increase your risk of infection.
- Liver problems like yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Anxiousness
- Hallucinations
- Memory problems
- Sleepwalking
- Trouble sleeping
- Suicidal thoughts or suicide
Form and Strength
Singulair and its generic alternative Montelukast are available in the following form and strengths:
Singulair: Tablet
- 10 mg
Montelukast: Tablet
- 10 mg
Caution
- It is unknown whether montelukast is passed through human milk. Therefore, caution should be exercised when administering Singulair to a nursing mother, as many drugs are excreted in human milk.
- Singulair is not recommended for people who are allergic to any of its ingredients. It should also be used with caution in people with kidney or liver problems, as well as people with diabetes, as it can cause low blood sugar.
- It may interact with other medications you are taking, so it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
- Pregnant women should consult with their doctor before taking montelukast, so they can evaluate the potential risks and benefits of taking the medication during pregnancy.
- Montelukast may trigger agitation, disorientation, irritability, or other abnormal behaviors in some people. It may also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors or worsen existing depression.
- Montelukast may lead to an increase in certain white blood cells (eosinophils) and may cause Churg-Strauss syndrome (blood vessel disease). This typically occurs in patients with asthma or those taking oral steroid medicines that are being stopped, reduced, or lowered in dose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does Singulair work?
Singulair blocks leukotrienes, which can cause airway narrowing and inflammation in asthma and allergies. It helps prevent symptoms by stopping leukotrienes from causing inflammation.
How long does Singulair stay in my system?
Singulair (montelukast) will be in your system for approximately 30.3 hours. The mean plasma half-life of montelukast is around 2.7 hours.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Singulair?
If you miss a dose of Singulair, skip it and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take an extra or two doses at once to make up for the missed dose.
Are there any drug interactions with Singulair?
Yes, there are some drug interactions with Singulair. Tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking before starting Singulair.
REVIEWS