Singulair is a medication that contains the active ingredient montelukast sodium. It belongs to a class of drugs known as leukotriene receptor antagonists, which are used for the prevention and treatment of asthma and relief of symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis.
Dosage and Administration:
Singulair is available as 10 mg tablets. The recommended dosage for adults and adolescents aged 15 years and older is one 10 mg tablet taken orally once daily, in the evening. For children aged 6 to 14 years old, the recommended dose is one 5 mg chewable tablet taken orally once daily, in the evening.
The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, and the chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. Singulair can be taken with or without food.
It is important to take Singulair regularly as prescribed by your doctor, even if you are not experiencing any symptoms. Do not exceed the recommended dose unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
Usage and Indications:
- Asthma: Singulair is used for the prevention and long-term treatment of asthma in adults and children aged 12 months and older. It helps to control and prevent symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing.
- Allergic Rhinitis: Singulair is also used to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) in adults and children aged 2 years and older. It can help reduce nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itching of the nose or eyes.
It is important to note that Singulair should not be used to treat acute asthma attacks. If you experience sudden worsening of asthma symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Possible Side Effects:
Most people tolerate Singulair well, but like any medication, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include headache, upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms.
In rare cases, Singulair may cause serious side effects such as behavior or mood changes, including suicidal thoughts or actions. If you experience any unusual changes in mood or behavior, contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions:
Before taking Singulair, inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially liver disease. Additionally, disclose all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to your doctor as Singulair may interact with certain medications.
In conclusion, Singulair is a medication used for the prevention and treatment of asthma and relief of symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis. The recommended dosage for adults and adolescents is one 10 mg tablet taken orally once daily. It should be taken regularly as prescribed by your doctor. Common side effects may include headache, upset stomach, and dizziness. Contact your doctor if you experience any unusual changes in mood or behavior.