- Body system
- Respiratory
- Brand names
- Singulair
What is Montelukast used for?
- Long-term control of asthma
- Prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction
- Allergic rhinitis (when other treatments are not suitable)
How Montelukast works
Leukotriene receptor antagonist: blocks leukotrienes that cause airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction and mucus.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Upper respiratory infection symptoms
Report right away
- Agitation, aggression, depression, sleep disturbances, nightmares or suicidal thoughts
Nursing considerations for Montelukast
- Ask about mood and behavior changes at each visit, in children and adults.
- Not used to treat an acute attack.
Patient teaching
- Take once daily in the evening for asthma.
- Report any change in mood, behavior or sleep right away.
- Keep using your rescue inhaler for sudden symptoms.
This card does not list doses. Use the prescriber's order, the product label and a current drug reference for dosing, and follow your facility's policies.
Asthma controller drugs practice questions
NCLEX-style questions on the class Montelukast belongs to.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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What should a patient do after using an inhaled corticosteroid?
Show answer
Answer C: Rinse the mouth with water and spit Rinsing removes drug left in the mouth and throat and prevents oral candidiasis (thrush).
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Which adverse effect is the subject of a boxed warning for montelukast?
Show answer
Answer D: Neuropsychiatric events such as depression and suicidal thoughts Montelukast carries a boxed warning for serious neuropsychiatric events in children and adults.
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A patient says, 'I only use my fluticasone inhaler when I'm wheezing.' What is the best response?
Show answer
Answer B: Fluticasone works only if used every day; use albuterol for wheezing Inhaled corticosteroids take days to weeks to reduce inflammation and do not relieve acute symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
What is Montelukast used for?
Long-term control of asthma; Prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction; Allergic rhinitis (when other treatments are not suitable).
What drug class is Montelukast?
Montelukast belongs to the class asthma controller drugs. Leukotriene receptor antagonist: blocks leukotrienes that cause airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction and mucus.
What are the nursing considerations for Montelukast?
Ask about mood and behavior changes at each visit, in children and adults. Not used to treat an acute attack.
What should patients report while taking Montelukast?
agitation, aggression, depression, sleep disturbances, nightmares or suicidal thoughts.