When you hear Singulair, a daily prescription pill used to control asthma and allergic symptoms by blocking leukotrienes in the body. Also known as montelukast, it's not a rescue inhaler—but it helps keep your airways open so you don't need one as often. Many people take it every night without thinking twice, but few know why it works—or what it might be doing to their body over time.
Singulair belongs to a class of drugs called leukotriene inhibitors, medications that block chemicals in the body that cause airway swelling and mucus buildup during asthma or allergy attacks. Unlike inhalers that deliver medicine directly to the lungs, Singulair works systemically. That means it affects your whole body, not just your breathing passages. It’s often prescribed for kids with asthma, adults with exercise-induced symptoms, or anyone whose allergies trigger coughing or wheezing. But it’s not for everyone. Some people report mood changes, sleep issues, or even nightmares while taking it—something the FDA added a black box warning for in 2020.
It’s also not a quick fix. You won’t feel better right away. Most people notice less nighttime coughing or fewer allergy flare-ups after a week or two. It works best when taken daily, even when you feel fine. Skipping doses can make symptoms come back harder. And while it’s often paired with inhalers like albuterol or corticosteroids, it doesn’t replace them. Think of Singulair as your background guard—not your emergency team.
What’s interesting is how often it shows up alongside other treatments. If you’re on warfarin, you’ll want to know that Singulair doesn’t interfere with blood thinners. But if you’re using herbal supplements like Dong Quai, that’s a different story—those can boost bleeding risk. And if you’re managing asthma with inhalers, proper technique matters just as much as the pill you take. A poorly used inhaler can make you think your medication isn’t working, when really, it’s just not getting where it needs to go.
Singulair isn’t the only option. For some, antihistamines or nasal sprays do the job better. For others, especially those with severe allergies, newer biologics might be more effective. But for millions, Singulair remains a simple, once-a-day choice that keeps them breathing easier—without the puffing or shaking of other meds.
Below, you’ll find real-world advice from people who’ve used it, warnings about what to watch for, and comparisons with other treatments. Whether you’re just starting out or have been on it for years, there’s something here that can help you use Singulair more safely—and more effectively.
Montelukast is a daily oral medication that blocks leukotrienes to prevent asthma and allergy symptoms. It's not a rescue drug, but helps those who can't use inhalers or have both asthma and nasal allergies. Learn how it works, who benefits, and what to watch for.