Montelukast (Singulair) is a drug that relieves allergy symptoms and is also used to prevent asthma attacks. It reduces congestion in your nose and also cuts down on sneezing, itching, and eye allergies. For people with allergies and asthma, it helps reduce inflammation in your airways.
It works by stopping the action of a chemical called leukotriene, which causes your nasal passages to swell and make a lot of mucus. The same chemical is also responsible for tightening airways when you have asthma, making it harder to breathe.
Singulair is a prescription medication. You take it once a day. It’s the only drug of this type that’s approved for allergies.
Side effects include headache, earache, sore throat, nervousness, nausea, and nasal congestion. Neuropsychiatric events have been reported in adult, adolescent, and pediatric patients taking Singulair.
Ask your doctor before taking Singulair if you’re pregnant or before giving it to a child.