Montelukast (often sold as Singulair) helps control asthma and seasonal allergies for lots of people. It’s an easy once-a-day pill, but it’s not totally risk-free. Here are simple, practical safety tips so you get benefits without surprises.
This is the main thing people miss. Some users—especially kids—report nightmares, anxiety, agitation, depression, or even thoughts of self-harm. Don’t shrug off new sleep problems, sudden anger, extreme tiredness, confusion, or talk about hurting yourself. If you notice any of these, stop the medicine and call your doctor or seek emergency help right away.
Ask family members or teachers to watch kids for behavior shifts. Keep a short checklist for the first month: sleep, mood, school focus, and appetite. Early changes are easier to catch and act on.
Follow your prescription. Typical dosing: adults and teens 15+ take 10 mg once daily (usually in the evening). Kids 6–14 years usually take 5 mg chewable once daily. Children 2–5 years often get 4 mg (chewable or granules). Confirm with your prescriber—never guess the dose.
Take montelukast at about the same time each day. For asthma control many doctors prefer evening dosing. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember but don’t double up that day.
Montelukast is not a rescue drug. It won’t stop an asthma attack. Always carry your fast-acting inhaler and use it if breathing worsens. If asthma symptoms get worse while on montelukast, contact your doctor—do not wait.
Tell your doctor about all medicines and supplements you take. Montelukast has few major drug interactions, but your prescriber should know about strong liver enzyme drugs, warfarin, or mood medications. If you have liver disease, mention that too—rare liver issues have been reported.
Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your OB. Many providers still prescribe montelukast when the benefits outweigh risks, but pregnancy decisions are personal and should be handled with your clinician.
Know serious-warning signs: jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), severe rash, swelling, trouble breathing, or sudden severe joint pain. These are uncommon but need immediate medical attention.
Keep follow-ups. If your doctor starts montelukast, schedule a check-in after a few weeks to review symptoms and side effects. If you or a family member notices behavior or mood changes at any time, reach out sooner.
Final practical tip: keep a short record—dose time, any mood or sleep changes, and breathing notes. That log makes it easy to spot patterns and helps your doctor decide if montelukast should continue.
