Description
Generic Name: montelukast sodium
Drug Class: leukotriene receptor antagonist
What is Singulair?
Singulair is an oral prescription drug used for chronic treatment and prophylaxis of asthma. It is also used as acute prevention for exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), and it is prescribed to relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, seasonal allergic rhinitis, and perennial allergic rhinitis.
Dosage Forms
This is available in Singulair 10 mg tablets.
Singulair Mechanism of Action
Singulair primarily blocks the action of leukotriene D4 in the lungs. It binds selectively and with high affinity to cystic leukotrienes type 1 receptor, which leads to the inhibition of actions of cysLTs that facilitates allergic rhinitis and asthma. This action leads to the decrease of inflammation in the lungs and relaxation of smooth muscle in the airway.
How to Take Singulair
Before starting to take Singulair, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. Medication must only be taken after you understand its use and directions. See your doctor or pharmacist if you need further medical advice or information.
The only way to take Singulair is by mouth. This is usually prescribed once a day and preferably in the evening. It is suitable for consumption with or without meals. Swallow the film-coated tablet entirely and drink fluids right after. If you are taking it in the form of a chewable tablet, chew it properly before swallowing.
Make a dosing schedule. If this is indicated for exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, take it about 2 hours prior to exercise. Do not increase or decrease your doses. You should not take this oral medication more frequently than recommended.
Singulair Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Headache
-Nausea
-Tiredness
-Stomach upset
-Diarrhea
-Heartburn
Severe Side Effects:
-Numbness or tingling of extremities
-Muscle weakness
-Sinus pain
-Stuttering
-Uncontrolled muscle movements
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Singulair.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and call your doctor or health care professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take Singulair if you have a known allergy to montelukast or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. Always be watchful for any signs of serious allergic reactions, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. If this occurs, stop taking this oral medication and seek emergency medical help immediately.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and liver disease. Also, due to possible drug interactions, you should discuss all the prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
The chewable form of this tablet contains aspartame. This particular chemical must be restricted for people with phenylketonuria or PKU. Talk to your doctor about your condition or discuss ways to take this medication safely.
Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should only take this oral drug if absolutely necessary. It is necessary to discuss all the possible risks with a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Singulair used for?
Singulair (generic: montelukast) is used to treat and prevent asthma. It is also prescribed for other conditions, such as allergic rhinitis and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.
Why do they recommend taking Singulair at night?
This oral drug is usually taken once a day. Most physicians recommend taking it at night as asthma symptoms tend to get worse at night.
Does Singulair cause weight gain?
There is no link between this oral medication and weight gain. Weight changes are not among the common side effects of this drug.
Will Singulair help a cough?
Montelukast can help manage breathing symptoms of asthma. These symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Does Singulair help COPD?
This oral medication works by decreasing lung inflammation. Because of this action, this drug is also being used off-label to manage COPD.
Can Singulair be bought over the counter?
This product is a prescription drug. You need to have a valid prescription before purchasing from any pharmacy.
How much does Singulair cost?
You may see the list of prices on this page by clicking here. You can get the best deals when you order your prescription drugs from PharmaPassport.