Singulair (Montelukast)

singulair

Singulair is a leukotriene inhibitor used to treat asthma and certain allergies. The active ingredient in Singulair is montelukast sodium which is formulated as 10mg film-coated tablets, 4mg and 5mg chewable tablets, and 4mg packets of oral granules.

Uses

Singulair is a medication primarily used for the treatment and management of certain respiratory conditions. Its main uses include:

  • Asthma: Singulair is used as a maintenance treatment to prevent asthma symptoms in both adults and children over the age of 12 months. It helps to reduce inflammation and constriction of the airways, making it easier to breathe and preventing asthma attacks.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: It is also used to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and perennial allergic rhinitis (year-round allergies) in patients aged two years and older. Medicine helps relieve symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion associated with allergies.
  • Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB): For individuals who experience asthma symptoms triggered by physical activity, Singulair can be used to prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.

It is important to note that Singulair is not a rescue medication for acute asthma attacks. In such situations, a quick-acting bronchodilator should be used instead.

Dosage

The dosage of Singulair can vary depending on the condition being treated and the age of the patient. The following are general guidelines for the typical dosages:

Asthma:

  • For adults and adolescents (age 15 years and older): The usual dose is 10 mg once daily, taken in the evening.
  • For children (age 6 to 14 years): The recommended dose is 5 mg once daily, taken in the evening.
  • For children (age 2 to 5 years): The prescribed dose is 4 mg once daily, taken in the evening.

Allergic Rhinitis:

  • For adults and adolescents (age 15 years and older): The standard dose is 10 mg once daily.
  • For children (age 6 to 14 years): The recommended dose is 5 mg once daily.
  • For children (age 2 to 5 years): The prescribed dose is 4 mg once daily.

Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB):

  • For adults and adolescents (age 15 years and older): The usual dose is 10 mg taken at least 2 hours before exercise. If taken for EIB, do not take another dose within 24 hours.
Singulair Pills

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, it can be taken as soon as you remember, as long as it does not clash with the next scheduled dose. In this case, rather skip the missed dose. Never take a double dose.

Overdose

An overdose of Singulair can be dangerous and may lead to severe side effects. If you suspect an overdose or have taken more than the prescribed dose of medicine, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

  • Stomach pain
  • Thirst
  • Sleepiness
  • Headache
  • Vomiting
  • Hyperactivity (in children)
  • Restlessness
  • Agitation
  • Unusual behavior

Precautions

When using Singulair, it is essential to take certain precautions to ensure safe and effective use. Here are some important precautions to be aware of:

  • Allergies: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
  • Asthma Attacks: Singulair should not be used as a rescue medication for acute asthma attacks. Always keep your quick-acting bronchodilator with you to manage sudden asthma symptoms.
  • Mental Health Changes: There have been reports of mental health changes while taking montelukast, including agitation, aggressive behavior, irritability, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
  • Churg-Strauss Syndrome: In rare cases, montelukast has been associated with the development of Churg-Strauss syndrome, a serious condition that can cause inflammation of blood vessels.
  • Liver Function: Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver problems, as montelukast may affect liver function. Regular monitoring may be required in such cases.
  • Interactions: Certain drugs may interact with Singulair and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
  • Pediatric Precautions: The safety and effectiveness of Singulair in children younger than 2 years old for asthma or 6 months old for allergic rhinitis have not been established. Use in these age groups should be carefully considered and discussed with a pediatrician.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Singulair may cause side effects in some individuals. While not everyone experiences these side effects, it is essential to be aware of the potential adverse reactions. Common side effects include:

  • Headache
  • Stomach pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Upset stomach
  • Tooth pain
  • Tiredness
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • Hoarseness
  • Skin rash
  • Ear infection (especially in children)

It is important to note that most people tolerate Singulair well, and these side effects are usually mild and temporary.

In rare cases, some individuals may experience more severe side effects, and if any of the following occur, seek immediate medical attention:

  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Mental/mood changes (agitation, aggression, anxiety, depression)
  • Unexplained pain or swelling (especially in the joints)
  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing)

Storage

Proper storage of medications, including Singulair, is essential to maintain their effectiveness and ensure safety. Here are some guidelines for storing:

  • Temperature: Store tablets at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
  • Protect from Moisture: Keep the medication in its original packaging, and protect it from excessive moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom or any other area with high humidity.
  • Keep Away from Light: Avoid exposing the medication to direct sunlight or bright artificial light, as this can degrade the active ingredients.
  • Childproof Container: Ensure that the medication is stored in a childproof container or a place that is out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do Not Freeze: Do not freeze Singulair. Freezing can alter the chemical composition and effectiveness of the medication.
  • Discard Expired Medication: Check the expiration date on the packaging, and do not use Singulair beyond its expiration date. If the medication has expired, dispose of it properly following local guidelines.
  • Keep it Dry: Avoid storing Singulair near water sources or in areas prone to dampness.
  • Original Packaging: Always keep the medication in its original packaging, with the label intact, to identify it correctly and avoid confusion with other medications.