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What is Singulair
 Singulair
is a leukotriene (loo-koe-try-een) inhibitor. Leukotrienes
are substances in the body that are associated with the inflammation
and constriction of airway muscles and the accumulation of
fluid in the lungs, all of which occur during an asthma attack.
Singulair
is used to prevent asthma attacks. Singulair is also used
in the treatment of seasonal nasal allergies.
Singulair
may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this
medication guide.
General medical information about Singulair
Singulair will not stop an asthma attack that has
already begun. It is used to prevent asthmatic attacks.
Use Singulair on a regular basis for best results.
It may take several weeks to get the maximum effect of this
medication.
Seek medical attention if you notice
that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum
amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An
increased need for medication could be an early sign of
a serious asthma attack.
What you should find out before taking Singulair Before taking Singulair, tell your doctor if you
have liver disease. You may not be able to take Singulair,
or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring
during treatment if you have liver disease.
The 4
mg chewable Singulair tablets contain 0.674 mg phenylalanine
and the 5 mg chewable Singulair tablets contain 0.842 mg
phenylalanine. Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) may
need to monitor their intake of this additive.
Singulair
is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is
not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not, however,
take this medication without first talking to your doctor
if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether Singulair
passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without
first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a
baby.
How should take Singulair Take Singulair exactly as directed by your doctor.
If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist,
nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Singulair
is usually taken in the evening. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Swallow the regular tablets with a glass of water.
Chew the chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
The granules can be given either directly into the
mouth or mixed with a spoonful of cold or room temperature
applesauce, mashed carrots, rice, or ice cream. The packet
should not be opened until ready to use. After opening the
packet, the full dose must be administered within 15 minutes.
Never store any mixed or unmixed granules for use after
15 minutes. The granules are not intended to be dissolved
in liquid however, liquids may be taken after administration
of the medication.
Singulair can be taken with or
without food.
Do not stop taking Singulair without
first talking to your doctor. It may be some time before
you begin to notice effects from this medication.
Continue taking any other asthma medications, as directed
by your doctor.
Singulair will not stop an asthma
attack that has already begun. Keep another medication on
hand to treat attacks.
Seek medical attention if
you notice that you require more than your usual or more
than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour
period. An increased need for medication could be an early
sign of a serious asthma attack.
Store Singulair
at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However,
if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed
dose and take the next regularly scheduled dose as directed.
Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if you overdose: Seek emergency medical attention.
The symptoms
of an overdose of Singulair are unknown.
Avoid while taking Singulair Avoid items or activities that may trigger an asthma
attack.
Possible side effects of Singulair If you experience any of the following serious side
effects, stop taking Singulair and seek emergency medical
attention or notify your doctor immediately:
- an
allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the
throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- numbness, tingling, or pain;
- a rash or
unexplained open sores or bruising;
- a flu-like
illness;
- severe inflammation (pain and swelling)
of the sinuses; or
- worsening respiratory symptoms.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely
to occur. Continue to take Singulair and talk to your doctor
if you experience
- upset stomach, stomach pain,
or heartburn;
- dizziness or headache;
- tiredness;
- sore throat or cough, or
- nasal irritation.
Side effects other than those listed here may also
occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems
unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Singulair Before taking Singulair, tell your doctor if you
are taking rifampin (Rimactane, Rifadin) or phenobarbital
(Luminal, Solfoton). You may not be able to take Singulair,
or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring
during your treatment.
Drugs
other than those listed here may also interact with Singulair.
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription
or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.
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