What should you know about Singulair for allergic rhinitis?

Singulair, also called montelukast, blocks leukotriene signals that contribute to inflammation in the nose and airways. Allergic rhinitis can cause sneezing, nasal blockage, watery or itchy eyes and a cough from drainage. A clinician may discuss Singulair when rhinitis occurs alongside asthma, or when usual nasal and allergy treatments are not suitable. It is not a rescue medicine and does not remove the underlying trigger. Ongoing nasal symptoms may also overlap with sinusitis, chronic sinusitis or non-allergic causes, so the diagnosis matters.

Use Singulair only in the prescribed way and keep a note of nasal, eye and breathing symptoms. Ask about nasal sprays, antihistamines, trigger reduction and treatment of coexisting asthma before deciding what belongs in your plan. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, other medicines, liver disease and previous mental-health symptoms. Stop and seek prompt medical advice about nightmares, sleep disruption, irritability, depression, unusual behaviour or suicidal thoughts; emergency help is needed if safety is at immediate risk. Do not take an extra dose for sudden breathlessness.

Get emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, faintness, or swelling of the face, mouth or throat. Arrange clinical review when symptoms persist despite treatment, nasal blockage is one-sided or painful, fever accompanies facial pain, or a cough and wheeze are worsening. Seek prompt advice for any new mood or behaviour change after starting the medicine.

Ask whether allergic rhinitis is confirmed, why Singulair is preferred, what alternatives are available, and how long the trial should last. Clarify the warning signs for asthma, sinus complications and mental-health effects, and make a plan for review.