Singulair

Singulair (Montelukast) treats asthma and seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Drug Name

Trade Mark Name: Singulair
Generic Name: Montelukast

Drug Uses

Singulair treats asthma and seasonal allergic rhinitis. This medication starts acting after 3 to 14 days of therapy. Thus, it can not be used to deal with an acute asthmatic attack.

How Taken

The standard dose of Montelukast is 4, 5, or 10 mg every day. The 4 and 5 mg pills are used in children. Montelukast is to be taken in the evening either with or without meals.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Montelukast is an oral leukotriene receptor antagonist for asthma and seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Montelukast is similar to zafirlukast (Accolate), as it blocks the binding of some leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are naturally occurring chemicals in the body that promote inflammation in asthma and seasonal allergic rhinitis and in other illnesses in which inflammation is vital (such as allergy). Montelukast is proved to be safe and effective in children as young as 6 months old. It was approved by the FDA in 1998.