Singulair (montelukast) — what it does and when to use it

Singulair is the brand name for montelukast, a pill many doctors prescribe for asthma control and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It works by blocking leukotrienes — chemicals that tighten airways and cause inflammation. People use it as a daily controller medicine, not a rescue inhaler for sudden attacks.

Common doses & how to take it

For adults and teens 15 and older, the usual dose is 10 mg once every evening. Children have lower, age-based doses: 5 mg chewable for ages 6–14, 4 mg chewable or granules for younger kids. Always follow the exact dose your prescriber gives you. Take it at the same time each day for steady effect. If you forget one dose, take it when you remember — but don’t double up.

Singulair is meant as a maintenance drug. It helps reduce symptoms over time and can cut down how often you need other medicines. It is also used for exercise-induced bronchoconstriction — usually taken two hours before exercise for protection.

Safety, side effects, and what to watch for

Most people tolerate montelukast well. Common side effects include headache, stomach pain, and mild sleep issues. The clearest red flag is neuropsychiatric symptoms. Some patients report mood changes, anxiety, aggressive behavior, vivid dreams, or depression. Rarely, suicidal thoughts have been reported. If you or a family member notices changes in mood, sleep, or behavior after starting Singulair, contact your doctor right away.

Montelukast has few major drug interactions compared with older asthma drugs, but always tell your clinician about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products you use. Don’t stop inhaled steroids or other controller meds without medical advice. Singulair helps control inflammation but won’t replace rescue inhalers for sudden breathing problems.

For children, dosing and swallowing ability matter. Chewable tablets and oral granules exist for younger kids. Keep all medicines out of reach and follow pediatric dosing exactly. If a child has new behavioral changes after starting montelukast, seek medical advice promptly.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: data are mixed. If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. They can help decide whether montelukast is the right choice for you.

Thinking of buying Singulair online? Many countries require a prescription. Use only reputable pharmacies. Look for clear contact details, licensed pharmacist access, and verified reviews. Avoid sites that offer large discounts without asking for a prescription. Counterfeit or incorrect-strength pills are a real risk.

Questions to ask your prescriber: Is montelukast right for my type of asthma or allergies? How long should I try it before checking if it helps? What signs mean I should stop it? Clear answers will make treatment safer and more effective.

Singulair can be a useful tool for steady asthma and allergy control when used correctly. Watch for mood or sleep changes, follow dosing rules, and buy only from trusted sources. If anything worries you, call your clinician — quick action matters.