Singulair Tablet (Montelukast) Overview
Breathe a little easier with Singulair Tablet, the brand name for
montelukast. This once-daily prescription medicine helps prevent asthma symptoms and helps manage seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms, so you can get on with your day. It works differently from typical antihistamines and decongestants, which is good news if those haven’t done the trick for you or if you can’t tolerate them.
Singulair belongs to a class called leukotriene receptor antagonists. In simple terms, it blocks substances in your body called leukotrienes that can tighten your airways and trigger swelling and mucus. When those are blocked, breathing can feel easier, and
allergy symptoms like sneezing and a runny or stuffy nose can calm down. It’s also approved to help prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm in certain patients. Important note: Singulair is not a rescue medication for sudden breathing problems.
What Singulair Tablet is and Does
- Active ingredient: montelukast sodium
- Strength commonly prescribed: 10 mg film-coated tablet for adults and adolescents age 15 and older
- Use: prevention and long-term management of asthma, relief of seasonal allergic rhinitis and perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms, and prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm in eligible patients
Unlike many allergy treatments that block histamine, montelukast targets leukotrienes. Think of histamine and leukotrienes as two different “allergy switches.” You may get better results when both switches are addressed, especially if you also use an inhaled corticosteroid for asthma control, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Who May Benefit From Singulair Tablets
- Adults and teens with persistent asthma who need daily control
- People with seasonal or year-round allergies who want a once-daily, non-drowsy option
- Individuals who experience exercise-induced breathing tightness and are candidates for prevention therapy
Because montelukast carries an FDA Boxed Warning for serious mental health side effects, many healthcare providers reserve it for patients who do not respond well to, or cannot tolerate, other allergy treatments. Always discuss risks and benefits with your prescriber.
How to Take Singulair Tablets
Use exactly as prescribed. General guidance includes:
- For asthma control: one 10 mg tablet by mouth once daily in the evening
- For allergic rhinitis: one 10 mg tablet once daily, taken at any time of day
- For exercise-induced bronchospasm prevention: one 10 mg tablet at least 2 hours before exercise if you are a candidate for this use
- Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours. If you already take it daily, an extra dose before exercise is usually not recommended.
- Swallow the tablet whole, with or without food.
- If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s close to your next dose. Do not double up.
Important Safety and Boxed Warning Notice
Montelukast has a Boxed Warning for serious neuropsychiatric events. These may include agitation, aggressive behavior, anxiety, depression, trouble sleeping, vivid dreams, hallucinations, restlessness, or suicidal thoughts or actions. These effects can occur in adults and children, with or without a prior history. Stop the medication and contact your healthcare provider right away if you or a loved one notices mood or behavior changes.
Do not use Singulair to treat acute asthma attacks. Seek emergency care for sudden shortness of breath, chest tightness, or wheezing that does not improve with your rescue inhaler.
Tell your provider about all medicines and supplements you take. Some drugs can affect how montelukast works, including certain seizure medications and rifampin. If you have liver disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a history of mental health conditions, discuss whether Singulair is right for you.
Common Side Effects and What to Expect
Many people tolerate Singulair well. Common side effects can include:
- Headache
- Stomach pain or indigestion
- Sore throat, cough, or congestion
- Diarrhea
- Upper respiratory infections
- Dizziness or fatigue
These are usually mild and often improve as your body adjusts. Serious allergic reactions are rare but require immediate care: swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or severe rash.
What Makes Singulair Different from Antihistamines
- Different pathway: It blocks leukotrienes, not histamine.
- Once-daily dosing: Easy to remember and simple to fit into your routine.
- Non-drowsy: It is not a sedating antihistamine.
- Works with other therapies: Often paired with inhaled corticosteroids for asthma control if your provider recommends it.
Because Singulair works on airway inflammation and mucus, it can help with nighttime asthma symptoms and morning chest tightness. But it won’t open the airways quickly during an attack—that’s what your rescue inhaler is for.
Helpful Tips for Better Daily Use
- Take it consistently: Same time each day for steady control.
- Track symptoms: A simple diary or app can help you and your provider fine-tune your plan.
- Know your triggers: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and cold air can all play a role. Reduce exposure where you can.
- Combine smartly: Nasal steroids or non-drowsy antihistamines may be used alongside Singulair for allergies if your provider advises.
- Keep a plan: Make sure you have a written asthma or allergy action plan, including what to do if symptoms flare.
What to Know About ingredients and Storage
- Active ingredient: montelukast sodium 10 mg per tablet
- Inactive ingredients: may include standard tablet binders and coatings
- Storage: store at room temperature in a dry place, generally 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep in the original container and out of reach of children.
Frequently Asked Questions About Singulair
Is Singulair a steroid?+
No. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist, not a corticosteroid.
How quickly does Singulair start working?+
Some people notice benefits within a day, but steady improvements may take several days. For exercise-induced bronchospasm, take it at least two hours before activity if prescribed for that use.
Can I take Singulair with antihistamines or a nasal spray?+
Often yes. Many patients use it alongside a non-drowsy antihistamine or a steroid nasal spray. Always check with your healthcare provider.
Will Singulair make me sleepy?+
It is generally non-drowsy. If you feel unusual tiredness, dizziness, or trouble sleeping, let your provider know.
Can I stop Singulair once I feel better?+
Talk to your provider first. Stopping suddenly can allow symptoms to return. Your prescriber will guide you on the best plan.
Is Singulair safe for children?+
Montelukast has pediatric dosing in chewable tablets and granules. The 10 mg tablet is typically for those 15 years and older. Ask your child’s pediatrician what is appropriate.
What if I have an asthma attack while taking Singulair?+
Use your fast-acting rescue inhaler as directed. If symptoms are severe or not improving, seek emergency care.
Can I drink alcohol with Singulair?+
Moderate alcohol does not usually interact with montelukast, but avoid heavy drinking and speak with your provider, especially if you have liver concerns.
