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Brand Name: Singulair

Generic Name: montelukast

A leukotriene modifier - It is used to prevent and treat the symptoms of asthma

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What is this medicine?

Singulair (mon te LOO kast) is used to prevent and treat the symptoms of asthma. It is also used to treat allergies. Do not use for an acute asthma attack.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

liver disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to montelukast, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine should be given by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine at the same time every day. You may take this medicine with or without meals. Do not chew the tablets. Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 15 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

anti-infectives like rifampin and rifabutin
medicines for diabetes like rosiglitazone and repaglinide
medicines for seizures like phenytoin, phenobarbital, and carbamazepine
paclitaxel

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Tell your doctor or health care professional if your allergy or asthma symptoms do not improve. Take your medicine even when you do not have symptoms. Do not stop taking any of your medicine(s) unless your doctor tells you to.

If you have asthma, talk to your doctor about what to do in an acute asthma attack. Always have your inhaled rescue medicine for asthma attacks with you.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
dark urine
fever or infection
flu-like symptoms
painful lumps under the skin
pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet
sinus pain or swelling
suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
unusual bleeding or bruising
yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

cough
dizziness
drowsiness
headache
stomach upset
stuffy nose
trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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