Information about Singulair (Montelukast)
Singulair, with the active ingredient montelukast, is a medication primarily used to manage asthma and allergies. It is a leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) that works by blocking leukotrienes, chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus production. By inhibiting these chemicals, Singulair helps reduce symptoms related to asthma and allergic rhinitis and prevents asthma attacks. It is available in tablet form for oral administration and is often prescribed as a long-term treatment.
Product Highlights
- It helps prevent asthma attacks and manage symptoms in both adults and children.
- It is used to relieve symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
- Singulair is used to prevent bronchospasm (airway narrowing) triggered by exercise.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Singulair helps decrease the frequency and severity of asthma attacks by preventing airway inflammation and constriction.
- It alleviates common allergy symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy or watery eyes.
- Singulair can help prevent asthma symptoms related to exercise, improving physical activity tolerance.
- The once-daily dosing improves patient adherence, and the medication is available in different formulations, making it suitable for both children and adults.
Direction of Use
- Singulair is taken orally, with or without food.
- The typical adult dose is 10 mg once daily, usually in the evening. Children’s doses vary based on age and weight, and the drug comes in chewable tablets or granules for ease of use in younger children.
- For optimal results, Singulair should be taken regularly at the same time each day.
- Singulair is used for long-term control and should not be relied upon for immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms. Rescue inhalers or other medications should be used for rapid relief.
Safety Concerns
- In rare cases, Singulair has been associated with mood changes, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Patients should be monitored for any behavioral or mood-related changes, especially in children and adolescents.
- Some people may experience allergic reactions to Singulair, including skin rashes, swelling, or breathing difficulties. Urgent medical attention is needed if these symptoms occur.
- Singulair is typically well-tolerated, but liver function should be monitored in patients with a history of liver conditions.
- Singulair is not intended for the treatment of acute asthma attacks or sudden breathing difficulties. In such cases, short-acting bronchodilators should be used.
Avoid Singulair (Montelukast) If
- Individuals who are allergic to montelukast or any of the components of the medication should not take Singulair.
- People with severe liver disease should avoid Singulair or use it with caution, as the liver metabolizes the drug.
- The chewable tablet form contains aspartame, which can be harmful to individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder.
- Singulair is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it should only be used when clearly needed and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
- Singulair should be avoided or used cautiously in patients with a history of psychiatric disorders due to potential neuropsychiatric side effects like mood changes and depression.
