SINGULAIR (MONTELUKAST)

Singulair Description

For those that require the prevention and long-term treatment of asthma or allergic rhinitis, ask your doctor about a prescription for Singulair or generic Montelukast. Singulair is available as a 10mg pill for adults, and a 4mg or 5mg chewable pill for children 2-14 years old, and convenient granules for infants 1 year to 23 months old. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

The active ingredient is called a leukotriene receptor antagonist that helps with the symptoms of wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, sneezing, and watery eyes. You will still require a fast-acting bronchodilator for sudden asthma attacks. Singulair is not a cure for asthma or allergies, but an effective treatment for relieving or preventing your symptoms.

Reduce the Symptoms of Inflammation and Swelling of Your Airways

When taken or administered as directed, Singulair will work by blocking a certain enzyme (5-lipoxygenase) that is responsible for creating leukotrienes, which contribute to inflammation when signaled by the detection of an allergen. As leukotrienes and other inflammatory causing chemicals are active, your airways swell and become constricted which decreases your airflow, and there is increased mucus production. Singulair prevents the action of leukotrienes so your airways remain open, the inflammation and swelling is reduced, and you are able to breathe easily.

Conditions Treated by Singulair

Many individuals with allergic rhinitis will develop asthma, and almost all those with asthma with have allergies. Whether it is seasonal or year-round allergies, when you come into contact with, or are exposed to triggers that include pollen, smoke, or dust mites, your immune system senses there is a danger present and your body responds with inflammation, swelling, watery eyes, and runny nose as a way to get rid of the threat. Asthma is still a bit of a mystery, but it is known that it can be hereditary and pollution is a major trigger for an attack that causes your airways to swell and become inflamed so your breathing can be labored.

Before Singulair is Prescribed

Check with your doctor before using Singulair if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Discuss other medical conditions or allergies with your doctor and list any current OTC or Rx drugs you take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements to determine if Singulair would be beneficial for you.

Singulair Precautions

If you are taking Singulair for the first time, it could take 3-7 days before you notice any significant improvements of your symptoms, so be patient. Singulair will not help during a sudden asthma attack so you must keep a rescue inhaler with you. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without consulting with your doctor to be certain you will not risk serious adverse effects.

Possible Side Effects of Singulair

• Belching
• Heartburn
• Vision changes