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Brand Name: Singulair
Generic Name: Montelukast
(mon te loo' kast)
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Why is singulair prescribed?
Singulair (Montelukast) is used to prevent asthma symptoms. It works by blocking the action of substances that cause inflammation, fluid retention, mucous secretion, and constriction in your lungs.
Singulair is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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How should singulair be used properly?
Montelukast (Singulair) comes as a tablet and as a chewable tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day in the evening. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take montelukast exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Montelukast controls asthma but does not cure it. Continue to take montelukast even if you feel well. Do not stop taking montelukast without talking to your doctor.
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What are the common uses for singulair?
Montelukast comes as a tablet and as a chewable tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day in the evening. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take montelukast exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Montelukast controls asthma but does not cure it. Continue to take montelukast even if you feel well. Do not stop taking montelukast without talking to your doctor.
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What special precautions should I follow when using singulair?
Before taking montelukast,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to montelukast or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially phenobarbital (Solfoton), rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had phenylketonuria or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking montelukast, call your doctor.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of singulair?
You should take the missed dose of singulair just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can singulair cause?
Although side effects from montelukast are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- stomach pain
- stuffy nose
- tooth pain
- headache
- dizziness
- heartburn
- tiredness
- cough
If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- increased difficulty breathing
- flu-like symptoms
- severe rash
- fever
» top What storage conditions are needed for singulair?
Always keep the singulair in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or an singulair overdose?
In case of an singulair overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about singulair?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
Call your doctor if your asthma symptoms do not improve or worsen. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your response to montelukast.
Montelukast will not stop an acute attack that has already started. Continue to use the medication prescribed for your acute attacks.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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