Singulair

Pronounced: sing-you-LAIR
Generic name: Montelukast sodium

Why is Singulair prescribed?

Singulair is used for long-term prevention of asthma. It reduces the swelling and inflammation that tend to close up the airways, and relaxes the walls of the bronchial tubes, expanding the airways and permitting more air to pass through.

Singulair is also used to relieve the stuffy, runny nose and sneezing caused by seasonal allergies.

Most important fact about Singulair

Singulair alleviates the on-going symptoms of asthma, but it won't stop an acute asthma attack. For that you need a fast-acting, orally inhaled airway opener such as Alupent or Proventil.

How should you take Singulair?

Take a Singulair tablet once daily, whether or not you have any symptoms. The tablet can be taken with or without food.

If you have asthma, or asthma plus allergies, take Singulair in the evening. If you have only allergies, you can take Singulair at any time.

The oral granules should be given directly in the child's mouth. The granules can also be mixed with a spoonful of one of the following soft foods: applesauce, carrots, rice, or ice cream. The food should be cold or at room temperature.

The granules should not be dissolved in liquids before giving them to your child. However, the child can drink liquids after the granules have been swallowed. Do not open the granules packet until your child is ready to take them. Once the packet is opened, the full dose of medication must be given within 15 minutes. Throw away any unused portion of the granules; do not store them for future use.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Singulair.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, abnormal dreams, allergic reaction, bronchitis, bruising, cough, dental pain, diarrhea, difficulty breathing or swallowing, dizziness, drowsiness, ear infection, ear pain, eczema, eye inflammation, fatigue, fever, flu, hallucinations, headache, hives, indigestion and other digestive problems, infection, insomnia, irritability, itching, laryngitis, leg pain, muscle aches and cramps, nasal congestion, nausea, pancreatitis, pneumonia, rash, restlessness, runny nose, seizures, sinus pain, skin inflammation, sneezing, sore throat, swelling due to fluid retention, swelling of the mouth or throat, upper respiratory infection, tendency to bleed easily, thirst, viral infection, vomiting