As scientists learn more about allergies and asthma, they are beginning to understand that these 2 diseases have a lot in common.
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and asthma are both known as allergic conditions. Both can be triggered by many of the same allergens. And, in both conditions, increased amounts of leukotrienes play an important role in causing symptoms—in your nose in allergic rhinitis and in your lungs in asthma.
Many people with asthma also have indoor and outdoor allergies. But, having allergies does not necessarily mean that you have or will get asthma. Millions more have only indoor and outdoor allergies.
You may know SINGULAIR as an asthma medicine. It is a medicine that effectively helps control asthma because it specifically blocks leukotrienes. Leukotrienes contribute to asthma symptoms, such as chest tightening and wheezing. SINGULAIR is also an effective indoor and outdoor allergy treatment because leukotrienes also play an important role in allergy symptoms.
SINGULAIR has not been studied as a treatment option for both conditions in the same person.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
SINGULAIR® (montelukast sodium) will NOT replace fast-acting inhalers for sudden symptoms. You should still have rescue medication available and continue to take your other asthma medications unless your doctor tells you to stop. For asthma, SINGULAIR should be taken once a day, in the evening as prescribed, whether or not you have asthma symptoms. If your symptoms get worse or you need to increase the use of your rescue inhaler, call your doctor at once.
Side effects are generally mild and vary by age, and may include headache, ear infection, sore throat, and upper respiratory infection. Side effects generally did not stop patients from taking SINGULAIR. Check with your doctor if you’re pregnant or nursing. SINGULAIR is available by prescription only.
For additional safety information, please see Patient Product Information.
