Montelukast
PrescriptionWhat is Montelukast?
Montelukast is a prescription medication that helps prevent asthma attacks and relieves allergy symptoms. It belongs to a class of drugs called leukotriene receptor antagonists. Doctors prescribe it for adults and children as young as 6 months old.
This medication comes as a tablet, chewable tablet, or oral granules. You take it once daily, usually in the evening for asthma or allergies. Montelukast works differently from quick-relief inhalers because it prevents symptoms rather than stopping them once they start.
The FDA approved montelukast in 1998 for asthma management. It became available as a generic medication in 2012. This made it more affordable for millions of people who need daily asthma or allergy control.
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Common uses
- Prevention of asthma symptoms and asthma attacks in adults and children 12 months and older
- Prevention of breathing problems caused by exercise in people 6 years and older
- Relief of seasonal allergies in adults and children 2 years and older
- Relief of year-round allergies in adults and children 6 months and older
- Long-term management of chronic asthma alongside other medications
How it works
Montelukast blocks substances in your body called leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are chemicals your immune system releases that cause swelling and tightening in your airways. They also trigger mucus production and allergy symptoms like sneezing and itchy nose.
By blocking leukotrienes, montelukast keeps your airways open and reduces inflammation. This makes it easier to breathe and helps prevent asthma symptoms before they start. For allergies, blocking leukotrienes reduces the immune response that causes seasonal or year-round allergy symptoms.
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Dosage information
Adults and teens 15 years and older typically take one 10 mg tablet daily. Children 6 to 14 years old usually take one 5 mg chewable tablet daily. Children 2 to 5 years old typically take one 4 mg chewable tablet or packet of oral granules daily. Infants 6 to 23 months old usually receive one 4 mg packet of oral granules daily. Your doctor determines the right dose based on your age and condition. Take montelukast at the same time each day for best results.
Side effects
- Headache
- Stomach pain or upset stomach
- Heartburn
- Tiredness
- Fever
- Stuffy nose
- Cough
- Upper respiratory infection
Serious side effects require immediate medical attention. These include mood changes, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, aggression, trouble sleeping, or vivid dreams. Some people experience tremors, uncontrolled muscle movements, or severe allergic reactions. The FDA added a boxed warning about serious mental health side effects in 2020. Contact your doctor right away if you notice any mental health changes while taking montelukast.
Drug interactions
- Phenobarbital may reduce montelukast effectiveness by increasing how fast your body breaks it down
- Rifampin may decrease montelukast levels in your blood
- Gemfibrozil may increase montelukast levels and raise your risk of side effects
- Do not use montelukast to treat sudden asthma attacks or bronchospasm
- Continue using your rescue inhaler as prescribed by your doctor
- Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including vitamins and supplements
- Do not stop taking other asthma medications unless your doctor tells you to
Blood test monitoring
Your doctor may check your eosinophil levels with blood tests while you take montelukast. Eosinophils are white blood cells that increase during allergic reactions and certain types of asthma. High eosinophil counts can indicate conditions like eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, a rare but serious condition. Regular monitoring helps your doctor confirm the medication is working properly. Rite Aid offers blood testing services that measure eosinophils and over 200 other biomarkers. This helps you and your doctor track your treatment progress between office visits.
Related blood tests
Taking Montelukast? Monitor your levels.
- Track how your body responds
- Catch side effects early with blood work
- Share results with your doctor
Frequently asked questions
Yes, montelukast is available at Rite Aid Pharmacy locations. You need a valid prescription from your doctor to get this medication. Rite Aid pharmacy services are returning soon and will fill montelukast prescriptions. You can submit your prescription information now to prepare for when services resume.
No, montelukast does not work for sudden asthma attacks or breathing emergencies. This medication prevents symptoms but does not provide quick relief. Always keep your rescue inhaler with you for sudden breathing problems. Call 911 if you have a severe asthma attack or cannot breathe.
Most people take montelukast in the evening, regardless of whether they use it for asthma or allergies. Taking it at the same time each day helps maintain steady levels in your body. If you use it only for exercise-induced breathing problems, take it at least 2 hours before exercise. Follow your doctor's specific instructions for timing.
Montelukast can cause serious mental health side effects in some people. These include depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, sleep problems, and mood changes. The FDA added a boxed warning about these risks in 2020. Tell your doctor right away if you or your child experiences any mental health changes while taking this medication.
Yes, doctors prescribe montelukast for children as young as 6 months old for certain conditions. Children take smaller doses in chewable tablets or oral granule packets. Parents should watch carefully for mood changes, behavior problems, or sleep issues. Talk to your pediatrician about whether montelukast is right for your child.
Eosinophils are white blood cells that increase during allergic reactions and certain types of asthma. High eosinophil counts can signal conditions that need different treatment approaches. Monitoring these levels helps your doctor know if montelukast is working properly. Rite Aid offers blood testing that includes eosinophil measurement along with over 200 other health markers.
Never stop taking other asthma medications without talking to your doctor first. Montelukast prevents symptoms but may not replace all your other asthma medications. Your doctor will decide if you can reduce or stop other treatments. Some people need montelukast plus inhalers for proper asthma control.
Montelukast starts working within one day for most people with allergies. For asthma prevention, you may notice improvement within 1 to 2 weeks of daily use. Some people need several weeks to experience the full benefits. Take montelukast every day as prescribed, even when you feel well.
Talk to your doctor about taking montelukast if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Animal studies have not shown harm to developing babies, but human studies are limited. Your doctor will weigh the benefits of controlling your asthma against any potential risks. Uncontrolled asthma can be dangerous during pregnancy.
Yes, generic montelukast contains the same active ingredient as the brand name Singulair. The FDA requires generic medications to work the same way in your body as brand name versions. Generic montelukast costs much less than brand name options. Your insurance may prefer or require the generic version.