Drug Uses
Singulair is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that is used to prevent and treat asthma. It may also be prescribed for other conditions like runny nose allergies.
How it is taken
Singulair can be taken by mouth with or without food.
Take it for the entire duration of treatment preferably at the same time everyday. Do not stop without consulting your doctor.
The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.
Missed Dosage
If you miss a dose of Singulair then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
Overdose
A Singulair overdose may lead to symptoms like hyperactivity, severe or persistent headache, stomach pain, unusual drowsiness or restlessness, unusual thirst, vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose.
Warnings/Precautions
Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances or if you have liver problems.
You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Singulair and contact your doctor immediately.
It is unknown whether SIngulair is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.
Certain drugs can interact with Singulair and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.
In some cases, people have an asthma that’s allergic to the use of aspirin or nonsteroidal anti–inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (eg, ibuprofen). If your asthma is allergic to it, then do not use these drugs.
Always carry appropriate medicine (eg, bronchodilator inhalers) with you in case of an asthma attack. Contact your doctor promptly if your short–acting inhaler use increases or if use exceeds the 24–hour maximum prescribed by your doctor.
Contact your doctor if your asthma worsens.
Possible Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of are cough, dizziness, headache, indigestion, nausea, stomach upset or pain, stuffy nose, tiredness, trouble sleeping, weakness. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.
Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), aggressive behavior, agitation, dark urine, fever, flu–like symptoms, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, new or worsening wheezing or other breathing problems, numbness or tingling of hands or feet, seizures, severe or persistent stomach pain, severe sinus inflammation, swelling, unusual bruising or bleeding, upper respiratory tract infection, yellowing of the skin or eyes.
You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.