How Long Does Singulair Take to Work?
Key Takeaways
- Singulair (montelukast) does not work immediately and is not used to treat acute asthma attacks.
- Some people notice improvement in allergy symptoms within a day, while asthma symptom control may take several days to weeks.
- Singulair works best as a long-term treatment taken consistently, even when symptoms are mild.
- The timeline can vary based on the condition being treated, age, and individual response.
- A healthcare provider can help determine whether Singulair is working as expected or if other asthma medications are needed.
What Is Singulair?
Singulair is the brand name for montelukast sodium, a prescription asthma medication approved by the FDA. It is classified as a leukotriene receptor antagonist and is used for the treatment of asthma, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, and allergic rhinitis, including seasonal allergic rhinitis and perennial allergic rhinitis.
Singulair is available in several forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and oral granules, making it an option for adults, children, and pediatric patients. It is not available over the counter and must be prescribed by a healthcare provider.
How Singulair Works
Montelukast works by blocking leukotrienes, which are inflammatory chemicals released when the body reacts to an allergen. Leukotrienes contribute to airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, mucus production, and asthma symptoms such as shortness of breath and wheezing.
By blocking leukotriene receptors, Singulair helps reduce inflammation in the airways and nasal passages. Unlike an inhaler used for quick relief, Singulair does not rapidly open the airways and is not intended for acute asthma attacks.
How Long Does Singulair Take to Work for Asthma?
For asthma symptoms, Singulair does not provide immediate relief. Most people begin to notice improvement within a few days, but full benefit may take several weeks of consistent daily use.
Singulair is commonly prescribed as part of long-term asthma treatment to reduce the frequency of asthma attacks and improve overall asthma control. It works gradually by reducing inflammation rather than providing fast bronchodilation like rescue inhalers.
People with exercise-induced asthma or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction may notice benefit after taking Singulair regularly, though it is not intended to replace a rescue inhaler.
How Long Does Singulair Take to Work for Allergies?
For allergic rhinitis and hay fever, Singulair may begin to reduce allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion within 24 hours. Some people experience relief sooner, while others may need several days of treatment.
Singulair may be used alone or alongside antihistamines such as Zyrtec, depending on symptom severity and response to treatment. It does not block histamine directly and therefore works differently from antihistamines.
Use for Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction
Singulair is approved for the prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, sometimes referred to as EIB. When used for this purpose, it is taken daily and not immediately before exercise.
Protection against exercise-induced asthma typically develops after regular dosing, rather than after a single dose. It should not be relied on for sudden breathing problems during exercise.
Why Singulair Does Not Work Right Away
Singulair targets inflammation at a chemical signaling level rather than directly relaxing airway muscles. Because inflammation reduction takes time, symptom improvement is gradual.
This is why Singulair is not used for acute asthma attacks, sudden shortness of breath, or emergency situations. A rescue inhaler should always be available for immediate symptom relief.
Factors That Affect How Quickly Singulair Works
Several factors can influence how quickly Singulair works, including:
- The condition being treated
- Severity of asthma symptoms or allergy symptoms
- Age and pediatric dosing considerations
- Consistency in taking the medication
- Presence of other asthma medications such as corticosteroids
Underlying medical conditions or drug interactions may also affect response.
Common Side Effects While Starting Singulair
Some people experience side effects when starting this medication, even before symptom improvement is noticeable.
Common side effects of Singulair include:
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Upper respiratory symptoms
These side effects are often mild and may improve as the body adjusts to the medication.
Serious Side Effects and Mental Health Considerations
Singulair carries an FDA boxed warning related to serious mental health side effects. These may occur at any point during treatment, including early on.
Serious side effects may include:
- Mood changes
- Trouble sleeping
- Suicidal thoughts
- Anxiety or depression
- Allergic reaction
Any mental health or behavioral changes should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.
Pediatric Considerations
Singulair is approved for children:
- 12 months of age and older for the prevention and treatment of asthma.
- 6 years of age and older for the prevention of exercise-induced asthma.
- 2 years of age and older for seasonal allergies.
- and 6 months of age and older for perennial (year-round) allergies.
In pediatric patients, Singulair may be taken as a chewable tablet or oral granules. Some formulations contain phenylalanine, which is important for children with phenylketonuria.
Parents should monitor children closely for behavioral changes, sleep disturbances, or changes in mood, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.
Drug Interactions and Other Medications
Singulair may interact with certain medications, including phenobarbital, which can reduce montelukast levels. Supplements and other prescription drugs should always be reviewed with a healthcare provider.
Singulair may be used alongside inhaled corticosteroids, antihistamines, or other asthma medications as part of a broader treatment plan.
Breastfeeding and Use Considerations
Small amounts of montelukast may pass into breast milk. While it is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, medical advice should be sought before use.
When to Talk to a Healthcare Provider
Contact a healthcare provider if:
- Symptoms do not improve after several weeks
- Asthma attacks continue or worsen
- Allergy symptoms remain uncontrolled
- Serious side effects or mental health symptoms occur
A healthcare professional can adjust treatment or recommend alternative options.
Bottom Line
Singulair does not work immediately. Allergy symptom relief may begin within a day, while asthma symptom improvement often takes several days to weeks of consistent use. Because it is a long-term treatment, Singulair should be taken daily as prescribed, even when symptoms are mild. For immediate relief of asthma attacks, a rescue inhaler is still required.
FAQs
How long does Singulair take to work for asthma?
Most people begin to notice asthma symptom improvement within a few days, but full benefits may take several weeks. Singulair works gradually and is intended for long-term asthma control rather than immediate relief.
How fast does Singulair work for allergies?
Some people notice improvement in allergic rhinitis symptoms within 24 hours. Others may need several days of consistent use before seeing noticeable relief.
Can Singulair help right away during an asthma attack?
No, Singulair does not treat acute asthma attacks or sudden shortness of breath. A rescue inhaler should always be used for immediate symptom relief.
Should I keep taking Singulair if I don’t feel better right away?
Yes, Singulair should be taken daily as prescribed, even if improvement is not immediate. If symptoms do not improve after several weeks, a healthcare provider should reassess the treatment plan.
Sources
- FDA – Singulair (montelukast) Prescribing Information
- MedlinePlus – Montelukast
- National Institutes of Health – Asthma Medications and Leukotriene Modifiers