This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Singulair Consumer Information
SINGULAIR
Generic Name: montelukast (mon the LOO kast)
Brand Names: Singulair
What is the most important information I should know about montelukast?
- Montelukast will not stop an asthma attack that has already begun. It is used to prevent asthmatic attacks.
- Use montelukast on a regular basis for best results. It may take several weeks to get the maximum effect of this medication.
- Seek medical attention if you notice that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.
What is montelukast?
- Montelukast is a leukotriene (loo-koe-try-een) inhibitor. Leukotrienes are substances in the body that are associated with the inflammation and constriction of airway muscles and the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, all of which occur during an asthma attack.
- Montelukast is used to prevent asthma attacks. Montelukast is also used in the treatment of seasonal nasal allergies.
- Montelukast may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking montelukast?
- Before taking montelukast, tell your doctor if you have liver disease. You may not be able to take montelukast, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have liver disease.
- The 4 mg chewable Singulair tablets contain 0.674 mg phenylalanine and the 5 mg chewable Singulair tablets contain 0.842 mg phenylalanine. Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) may need to monitor their intake of this additive.
- Montelukast is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not, however, take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- It is not known whether montelukast passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take montelukast?
- Take montelukast exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Montelukast is usually taken in the evening. Follow your doctor's instructions.
- Swallow the regular tablets with a glass of water.
- Chew the chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
- The granules can be given either directly into the mouth or mixed with a spoonful of cold or room temperature applesauce, mashed carrots, rice, or ice cream. The packet should not be opened until ready to use. After opening the packet, the full dose must be administered within 15 minutes. Never store any mixed or unmixed granules for use after 15 minutes. The granules are not intended to be dissolved in liquid however, liquids may be taken after administration of the medication.
- Montelukast can be taken with or without food.
- Do not stop taking montelukast without first talking to your doctor. It may be some time before you begin to notice effects from this medication.
- Continue taking any other asthma medications, as directed by your doctor.
- Montelukast will not stop an asthma attack that has already begun. Keep another medication on hand to treat attacks.
- Seek medical attention if you notice that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.
- Store montelukast at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- The symptoms of an overdose of montelukast are unknown.
What should I avoid while taking montelukast?
- Avoid items or activities that may trigger an asthma attack.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.