Description
About Singulair 10 mg
Singulair 10 mg is a prescription film-coated tablet containing 10 mg of montelukast, made by MSD Pharmaceuticals India Pvt. Ltd., used for long-term control of asthma, prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and relief of allergic rhinitis in adults and adolescents aged 15 and over. It carries Merck’s original brand name, but this is the Indian-market pack rather than the version labeled for sale in the US.
Key facts
| Drug class | Leukotriene receptor antagonist (oral controller) |
|---|---|
| Usual dose | One 10 mg tablet once daily |
| Timing | Evening for asthma; flexible for allergies; at least 2 hours before exercise for exercise-induced symptoms |
| Maximum | One tablet in 24 hours |
| Rescue use | Not suitable for an asthma attack |
| Safety alert | US boxed warning for neuropsychiatric events |
How does Singulair 10 mg work?
Montelukast selectively blocks the type 1 cysteinyl leukotriene receptor in airway smooth muscle and inflammatory cells. Without leukotriene signaling, the bronchi constrict less, the lining produces less mucus and swelling, and eosinophil activity falls. In allergic rhinitis, the same block eases congestion. Blood levels peak 3 to 4 hours after a tablet, and the once-daily dose maintains cover for 24 hours.
How to take Singulair 10 mg
Swallow one tablet a day with water, with or without food. For asthma, take it in the evening. For allergic rhinitis alone, take it at a time that suits you. To prevent exercise symptoms, take a single tablet at least 2 hours before activity and no more within 24 hours; if you already take it daily, do not add an extra tablet. Continue your inhaled corticosteroid, and keep a quick-relief inhaler with you.
How long does it take to work?
Some people notice less tightness or congestion after the first day or two. For asthma, allow 2 to 4 weeks of regular use before reviewing the result with your doctor, using a symptom diary or peak-flow readings. If there is no clear benefit, your doctor may stop it rather than keep you on a medicine that is not helping.
Neuropsychiatric boxed warning
In 2020 the FDA strengthened montelukast’s warning to a boxed warning after reports of agitation, aggression, depression, sleep disturbance, hallucinations, disorientation and suicidal thoughts or behavior, sometimes after treatment ended. Stop taking Singulair and contact your doctor right away if you notice new or worsening changes in mood, thinking or sleep. Because of this risk, it is reserved for allergic rhinitis only when other medicines have not worked or are unsuitable.
What are the side effects?
- Common: headache, stomach pain, indigestion, cough, flu-like symptoms and mild rises in liver enzymes.
- Uncommon: diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, tiredness, nosebleeds, joint or muscle aches and bruising.
- Rare but serious: severe allergic reactions, hepatitis (dark urine, yellow skin), and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, a vasculitis that may appear when oral steroids are reduced, with rash, numbness in the limbs and worsening chest symptoms.
Who should not take Singulair 10 mg?
Do not take it if you are allergic to montelukast. Tell your doctor about any history of depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts, about liver disease, and about pregnancy or breastfeeding plans; available data have not shown a clear risk in pregnancy, but the decision should be shared with your doctor. People with aspirin-sensitive asthma must keep avoiding aspirin and NSAIDs. Phenobarbital and rifampin lower montelukast levels, while gemfibrozil raises them.
Pack sizes and storage
Supplied in strips of 7 or 14 tablets, in packs of 28, 56 or 84, from $20. Store below 77°F (25°C) in the blister, protected from light and moisture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Singulair and Montair 10 mg?
Both contain 10 mg of montelukast. Montair 10 mg is Cipla’s version; the dose and warnings are the same.
Is there a children’s strength?
Yes. Children aged 6 to 14 use the chewable Singulair 5 mg.
What else helps hay fever?
Steroid nasal sprays are often more effective; see our allergy nasal spray guide and the allergy category.
Educational content only. Singulair 10 mg is a prescription medicine; take one tablet daily as directed and report any mood changes to your doctor.
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