Singulair

Singulair belongs to a class of medications known as leukotriene receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain substances called leukotrienes in the body. Leukotrienes are chemicals that cause inflammation and constriction of the airways in the lungs, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Singulair is available in tablet form for oral administration, and the dosage and frequency of use will depend on the individual's age, condition, and response to the medication.

It is worth noting that Montelukast is not a rescue medication for sudden asthma attacks. It should not be used to treat acute asthma symptoms, and if you experience a sudden worsening of your asthma symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention.

How to use

Here are some general guidelines for using Singulair:

1. Administration: Medicine is usually taken orally, with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and should not be crushed or chewed.
2. Timing: Take Singulair regularly as directed, even if you are not experiencing symptoms. It is usually taken once daily. For the prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, drug should be taken at least 2 hours before exercise.
3. Compliance: Take Singulair consistently and do not skip doses. If you accidentally miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
4. Duration: Continue taking Singulair for the prescribed duration. It may take several days to weeks to experience the full benefits of the medication.
5. Usage with other medications: Other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements can potential interactions with Montelukast.

Dosage

Here are some general dosage guidelines for Singulair:

Asthma in Adults and Adolescents (15 years and older):

• For the management of chronic asthma, the recommended dose is 10 milligrams (mg) taken orally once daily in the evening.

Asthma in Pediatric Patients (6 to 14 years):

• For children aged 6 to 14 years with asthma, the recommended dose is 5 mg taken orally once daily in the evening.

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) in Adults and Adolescents (15 years and older):

• For the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis, the recommended dose is 10 mg taken orally once daily.

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) in Pediatric Patients (2 to 14 years):

• For children aged 2 to 5 years, the recommended dose is 4 mg taken orally once daily.
• For children aged 6 to 14 years, the recommended dose is 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB) in Adults and Adolescents (15 years and older):

• For the prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, the recommended dose is 10 mg taken orally at least 2 hours before exercise.

Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB) in Pediatric Patients (6 to 14 years):

• For children aged 6 to 14 years, the recommended dose is 5 mg taken orally at least 2 hours before exercise.

Side effects

Singulair may cause side effects in some individuals. It is important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Common side effects include:

1. Headache: Some people may experience headaches while taking Singulair.
2. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Montelukast may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain in some individuals.
3. Respiratory symptoms: Singulair has been associated with respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and nasal congestion in rare cases. If you experience any unusual respiratory symptoms, seek medical attention.
4. Allergic reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions to Singulair can occur. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or tightness in the chest. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
5. Mood and behavior changes: In some cases, Singulair has been associated with mood and behavior changes, including agitation, aggression, irritability, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts or actions, particularly in children and adolescents.
6. Sleep disturbances: Medicine may cause sleep disturbances, including abnormal dreams or nightmares, insomnia, or drowsiness.
7. Other side effects: Less common side effects of Singulair may include dizziness, fatigue, muscle aches or cramps, fever, and flu-like symptoms.

Storage

When it comes to storing Singulair, it is important to follow the recommended guidelines to ensure the medication remains safe and effective. Here are some general storage instructions:

1. Temperature: Store pharmaceutical product at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, such as excessive heat or cold.
2. Original Packaging: Keep tablets in its original packaging, including the blister pack or bottle provided by the pharmacist. This packaging is designed to protect the medication from light, moisture, and other external factors.
3. Childproof Container: Store medicine in a childproof container and keep it out of reach of children and pets. This helps prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.
4. Avoid Bathroom Storage: It is generally advised not to store medications, in the bathroom or other areas with high humidity. Bathrooms can be prone to temperature and moisture fluctuations that may affect the stability of the medication.
5. Away from Kitchen Areas: Avoid storing Montelukast near the stove, sink, or any other areas where it could be exposed to heat, moisture, or steam.
6. Proper Sealing: Ensure that the medication container is tightly sealed after each use to maintain its integrity.
7. Medication Disposal: If you have expired or unused Singulair, it is important to dispose of it properly. Do not dispose of medications in the regular household trash unless instructed to do so.

Overdose

In case of an overdose of Singulair, it is important to seek immediate medical assistance or contact your local poison control center. Here are some general steps to follow:

1. Call emergency services: Dial your local emergency number or contact the poison control center right away. Provide them with information about the medication, the dosage you have taken, and the timing of the overdose.
2. Do not induce vomiting: Unless directed by medical professionals, do not induce vomiting. Vomiting may not effectively remove the medication from your system and can lead to additional complications.
3. Medical evaluation and treatment: When you arrive at the emergency room or speak to medical professionals, they will assess your condition and provide appropriate treatment. They may pump your stomach (gastric lavage) or administer activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of the medication. Additional treatments, such as intravenous fluids, medications, or close monitoring, may be given as necessary.
4. Supportive care: Depending on the severity of the overdose, you may require supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. This may include monitoring for any adverse effects, providing breathing support, administering antidotes if available, or managing other symptoms as needed.

It is crucial to seek immediate medical help in case of a Montelukast overdose. Do not delay or try to manage the situation on your own. Prompt medical intervention can significantly improve the outcome.

Missed Doses

If you happen to miss a dose of Singulair, here are some general guidelines to follow:

1. Take it as soon as you remember: If you realize that you have missed a dose and it is not close to the time for your next scheduled dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one.
2. Do not take extra doses: Taking extra doses of Singulair to make up for missed ones can increase the risk of side effects and may not provide any additional benefit.
3. Do not exceed the prescribed dose: It is important to take Montelukast as directed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage. Taking more than the prescribed dose can increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefits.
4. Continue with your regular dosing schedule: After missing a dose, continue with your regular dosing schedule as prescribed. Taking Singulair consistently at the prescribed times helps maintain a steady level of the medication in your body, which is important for its effectiveness.