Type of medicine Leukotriene receptor antagonist
Used for Asthma
Also called Singulair; Singulair paediatric
Available as Tablets
Chewable tablets
Granules

Singulair can be used to treat mild to moderate asthma and it can prevent tightness of the chest often experienced by asthmatics. The causes of asthma are not fully understood although it is thought to involve a genetic (or inherited) component, pollution may worsen or cause symptoms, pollen from trees or flowers sometimes worsens symptoms. Exposure to these and other factors cause the body to produce substances including leukotrienes. They cause inflammation and narrow the tiny air passages of the lungs (the bronchioles) during an asthma attack. Singulair works by blocking the effects of leukotrienes.

Why is this drug prescribed?

Singulair 10mg tablets contain the active ingredient montelukast, which is a type of drug known as a leukotriene receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are chemicals released by the body as part of allergic and inflammatory reactions. Leukotrienes are released from the lungs in people with asthma, causing inflammation and increased mucous production in the airways. They also cause the muscles lining the airways to contract, which narrows the airways. All of this makes it difficult for air to get in and out of the lungs. Montelukast blocks leukotriene receptors in the lungs and, as a result, blocks the actions of the leukotrienes. This prevents the excess mucous production, inflammation and narrowing of the airways and so prevents asthma attacks. It is also useful for preventing asthma triggered by exercise. Montelukast is used for people whose asthma is not fully controlled by using regular inhaled corticosteroids and short-acting beta agonist relievers such as salbutamol. It is used in addition to these drugs. Montelukast should be taken regularly to prevent asthma attacks. You should continue to take it even when your symptoms are under control. Leukotrienes are also released from the nasal passages when people with seasonal allergies, such as hayfever, are exposed to substances that trigger their allergy. The leukotrienes contribute to the symptoms of hayfever, such as a runny or blocked nose, sneezing and itchy nose. This drug blocks the effect of leukotrienes in the nose and so can also relieve hayfever symptoms in people with asthma who suffer from hayfever.

Treatments

* Asthma * Prevention of asthma mainly triggered by exercise * The drug can also provide relief from hayfever symptoms in people with asthma who also suffer from hayfever. Singulair 10mg tablets are suitable for adults aged 15 years and over. The tablet should be taken once daily, in the evening.

What side effects can this drug cause?

* Headache * Abdominal pain * Diarrhoea * Nausea and vomiting * Dry mouth * Dizziness * Difficulty in sleeping * Nightmares * Drowsiness * Fatigue * Pain in the muscles and joints * Pins and needles or numb sensations * Irritability * Agitation * Skin rashes * Awareness of your heart beat * Increased bleeding tendency * Jaundice related to inflammation in the liver * Seizures