Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Montelukast is used to manage and prevent symptoms related to asthma, such as wheezing and shortness of breath. It can be taken prior to physical activity to prevent bronchospasm. This medication can provide effective relief by decreasing the frequency of quick-relief inhaler usage. It can also relieve symptoms of hay fever and allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, a congested or runny nose, and itching.
Regular use of montelukast is necessary to maintain its effectiveness. This medication does not provide immediate relief and should not be used during sudden asthma attacks or breathing difficulties.
Montelukast works by blocking certain natural substances known as leukotrienes, which can trigger or worsen asthma and allergy symptoms. The drug reduces inflammation in the airways, making breathing easier and providing relief.
Uses and Dosage
Montelukast is available in tablet, chewable tablet, and granule form for oral consumption. It is usually taken once daily, with or without food, and at the same time each day.
For treatment of asthma, montelukast is best taken in the evening. For prevention of breathing difficulties during physical activity, it should be taken at least two hours before exercise. If taken regularly or within the past 24 hours, an additional dose before exercise is not necessary. For treatment of allergic rhinitis, montelukast may be taken at any time of day.
For children, the granules can be administered in several ways, including direct oral consumption, mixing with baby formula, breast milk, applesauce, soft carrots, ice cream, or rice. The granules should not be mixed with any other foods or liquids and must be used within 15 minutes after mixing. Unused mixtures should not be stored.
Montelukast should not be used to treat sudden asthma attacks and a short-acting inhaler should be used instead. If asthma symptoms worsen or occur more frequently, the doctor should be contacted immediately.
When taking montelukast for asthma, all other prescribed treatments should be continued and the doses should not be changed without doctor’s advice. Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should not be taken during treatment if they worsen asthma symptoms.
Montelukast only controls the symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis and does not cure these conditions. Montelukast should be taken continuously, even if symptoms improve, and should not be stopped without doctor’s consultation.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- cough
- diarrhea
- headache
- runny or stuffy nose
- sore throat
- stomach pain
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- skin rash
- itching
- hives
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- flu-like symptoms
- mood and behavior changes
- pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet
- sinus pain or pressure around the face or forehead
- trouble sleeping
- vivid dreams or nightmares
Caution
Inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history and any allergies prior to taking montelukast. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause adverse reactions.
If you have a history of liver disease or mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or thoughts of suicide, mention this to your doctor or pharmacist.
If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or are required to limit or avoid aspartame in your diet, please consult with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure the safe use of montelukast, as the chewable tablets may contain aspartame.
The use of this medication during pregnancy should only be done after careful consideration of the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Form and Strength
Singulair is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Singulair tablet:
- 10mg
-
montelukast tablet:
- 10mg
FAQ
Is Singulair a steroid?
Singulair is not a steroid – it works in a different way to reduce inflammation.
Does montelukast stop coughing?
There is strong evidence to suggest that leukotrienes are also involved in causing persistent cough following viral or whooping cough infection. Montelukast may therefore also help settle persistent coughs in these settings.
Resources
- https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/inhalers-medicines-treatments/add-on-treatments/montelukast/#:~:text=Montelukast%20is%20not%20a%20steroid,your%20preventer%20inhaler%20as%20prescribed
- https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01279668
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20684-montelukast-tablets
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6485-8277/singulair-oral/montelukast-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600014.html
- https://www.drugs.com/singulair.html
