Singulair drug information
Posted by admin on April 14, 2008Description
Singulair (Montelukast sodium) is a leukotriene (loo-koe-try-een) inhibitor. Leukotrienes are substances in the body that are associated with the inflammation and constriction of airway muscles and the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, all of which occur during an asthma attack.
Montelukast is used to prevent asthma attacks. Montelukast is also used in the treatment of seasonal nasal allergies.
Montelukast may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Montelukast will not stop an asthma attack that has already begun. It is used to prevent asthmatic attacks.
Ingredients
Montelukast sodium is a selective and orally active leukotriene receptor antagonist that inhibits the cysteinyl leukotriene CysLT1 receptor.
Montelukast sodium is described chemically as [R-(E)]-1-[[[1-[3-[2-(7-chloro-2-quinolinyl)ethenyl]phenyl]-3-[2-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)phenyl]propyl]thio]methyl]cyclopropaneacetic acid, monosodium salt.
The empirical formula is C35H35ClNNaO3S, and its molecular weight is 608.18.
Montelukast sodium is a hygroscopic, optically active, white to off-white powder. Montelukast sodium is freely soluble in ethanol, methanol, and water and practically insoluble in acetonitrile.
Each 10-mg film-coated Singulair tablet contains 10.4 mg montelukast sodium, which is the molar equivalent to 10.0 mg of free acid, and the following inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and magnesium stearate. The film coating consists of: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, titanium dioxide, red iron oxide, yellow iron oxide, and carnauba wax.
Recommendations
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may come with a patient leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. This medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Generally, if this medicine is being taken for asthma, it is taken once daily in the evening. If taking for hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis), take the medicine at about the same time each day (either morning or evening). If you are taking for both asthma and hay fever, take the medicine in the evening.
STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat, moisture, and light. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted.
CONTINUE TO TAKE THIS MEDICINE even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE use it as soon as your remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. DO NOT take 2 doses at once.
Precautions
THIS MEDICINE WILL NOT STOP AN ASTHMA ATTACK once one has started. IF YOU ARE ALSO USING A BRONCHODILATOR INHALER, be sure to always carry the inhaler with you to use during asthma attacks. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific advice on all drug therapy.
CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR PROMPTLY IF YOUR SYMPTOMS DO NOT IMPROVE or if they become worse while you are using this medicine. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR PROMPTLY if your short-acting inhaler use increases or if use exceeds the 24-hour maximum prescribed by the doctor.
DO NOT STOP USING THIS MEDICINE, or other asthma medicines, without first checking with your doctor. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are using this medicine.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy.