Montelukast, commonly known by its brand name Singulair, is a medication that helps patients suffering from specific respiratory conditions.
Available by prescription only, it comes as tablets or granules – which can be taken with food.
It’s used to treat a variety of respiratory conditions, including:
Asthma Management:
- Montelukast is a leukotriene modifier that blocks chemicals causing asthma symptoms.
- It’s a long-term control medication, reducing inflammation and relaxing bronchial muscles.
- Helps prevent nighttime symptoms, improves lung function, and reduces asthma attacks.
Allergic Rhinitis:
- Montelukast relieves allergy symptoms by blocking chemicals that trigger them.
- It’s an effective treatment for sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
- Suitable for those with allergic rhinitis who may not respond well to antihistamines.
Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction:
- Montelukast is used to prevent breathing problems during exercise.
- It reduces bronchoconstriction triggered by physical activity.
- Athletes can take it before exercise to maintain proper lung function.
Common Side Effects - more than 1 in 100 people
Montelukast is generally well-tolerated; however, like any medication, it can lead to common side effects in more than 1 in 100 people. If you experience any of the following side effects, consider the following steps to help alleviate them:
- High temperature: Some individuals may experience a mild rise in body temperature. To manage this, get adequate rest and stay well-hydrated. You can also use over-the-counter fever reducers like paracetamol or ibuprofen as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Headaches: Headaches are a common side effect. To cope with them, focus on staying hydrated, ensuring you get enough sleep, and practising relaxation techniques. If headaches persist, consult your healthcare provider.
- Diarrhoea: If you notice an increase in bowel movements or loose stools, maintaining good hydration and dietary habits can often alleviate this discomfort. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Stomach pain: Should you encounter stomach discomfort, consider taking montelukast with a meal or a snack, as this can help reduce the likelihood of stomach pain. If the issue persists, consult a healthcare professional.
- Feeling or being sick: Nausea and vomiting are infrequent but possible side effects. Taking montelukast with a meal can help alleviate these symptoms. If they persist, seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
- Mild rash: In some cases, a mild rash might occur. It is advisable not to scratch the affected area, keep the skin clean, and avoid potential irritants. If the rash worsens or becomes bothersome, consult with a healthcare professional.
For more information on the side effects of Montelukast, please visit the official NHS website.
Order Your Montelukast with Healthera
If you’ve been prescribed montelukast by your GP to treat your respiratory condition, you can now order your medication online with Healthera.
It only takes a couple of minutes to set up your prescription order for collection or home delivery from your local pharmacy.
To get started, simply click the button below:
