If you have been wondering ‘Is Singulair an antihistamine?’, this blog is all you should be reading right now. From discussing the basics of Singulair, and understanding antihistamines to concluding, it has all.
Before we proceed, let us help you out with what this medicine is all about. Also, it is a blessing for those who have breathing troubles (asthma) or signs of allergic rhinitis (sneezing, wheezing, etc). As this medicine aids in easing breathing problems, it is likely compared with antihistamines which are also employed for soothing similar symptoms. Therefore, you deserve to understand more about this drug so you know what you are using. Let us now move ahead to the basics.
What is Singulair (Montelukast)?
Singulair is an oral drug with Montelukast as the major active ingredient. It belongs to the class of drugs called leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs). This medicine works by blocking the actions of leukotriene (a chemical messenger) that elevate symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis. By opening the nasal airways, this medicine eases breathing.
In a nutshell, Singulair Montelukast tablet is a highly effective medication that reverses symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, sneezing, etc. Also, it is a reliable remedy for decreasing the number of times patients have to use a quick relief inhaler. It may prevent asthma attacks and aid in relieving hay fever too.
Use Singulair only if these symptoms cannot be relieved by any other medications or they are not working well.
Singulair Uses
This Montelukast tablet is mainly suggested for treating or preventing symptoms of:
- Allergic rhinitis (shortness of breath, sneezing, wheezing, etc)
- Asthma
Off-Label Uses of Singulair
- High fever
- Preventing Bronchospasms (breathing problems during exercises)
- Reducing the number of times the patient uses a quick-relief inhaler
What is antihistamine?
Antihistamine is a drug used for treating allergies as it inhibits the psychological effects of histamine. These drugs are suggested for treating hives, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, and any kind of allergic reactions happening after insect bites or stings. Such medications can also be helpful for mild or moderate acute allergic reactions such as to pet hair, food, or dust mites.
Here are the former instances of antihistamines prescribed for the aforementioned medical conditions:
You may want to learn about Tenovate too.
How are antihistamines classified?
Antihistamines are drugs that are formulated to counteract the effects of histamines in the human body. They are broadly categorized into first-generation and second-generation antihistamines.
First-generation antihistamines have sedating effects and are usually short-acting as the symptoms can be managed. This category of antihistamines acts faster but cannot remain effective for a longer period. So, they are preferably used before bedtime. Second-generation antihistamines don’t have sedating effects and may cause minimal drowsiness only. Hence, they are perfect for use during the day. However, they are highly effective and last longer than first-generation histamines so are used less frequently than others.
Your healthcare provider shall examine the underlying medical conditions to treat and suggest the antihistamine respectively.
What are the possible side effects of Singulair?
Talking about Singulair, it can have a few potential side effects which are also supposed to flee as treatment stops with this medicine. So, relax! Most of them will not want you to visit the doctor. But, if you notice any severe allergic reactions, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Mood changes
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Sleep disturbances
- Abdominal pain
Is Singulair an antihistamine?
By the time you have seen the classification of both drugs, you now know Singulair is not an antihistamine. The reason is Singulair works by blocking the actions of leukotriene while antihistamines work by blocking histamines. Hence, they address allergic rhinitis differently and also it isn’t the only medical condition these medicines manage. Both are assigned different tasks and they are best in whatever they are prescribed for.
What drugs and food should be avoided while taking Singulair (Montelukast)?
If you are prescribed Singulair, you need to be careful while using your existing medications. Some of your ongoing drugs may interact with Montelukast while others may make this drug ineffective. We are listing a few of them while you can get a full list from your healthcare provider:
- Phenobarbital
- Rifampin
- Gemfibrozil
- Aspirin
- Warfarin
- Anticonvulsants
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
In concerns with food interactions, you can have this medicine with or without food at your convenience. However, you must avoid alcohol as well as alcoholic beverages like grapefruit juice while undergoing treatment with this medication. They can excel dizziness already resulting with the use of Singulair.
Conclusion
The doubt – ‘Is Singulair an antihistamine?’ is clear now & it is not an antihistamine! Though antihistamines and LTRAs like Singulair may be prescribed for similar purposes, they are different classes of drugs. You can buy either of them based on the prescription. For further guidance, seek help from your doctor. Buy Singulair at Specialitymedz if you seek desired health improvements with 100% quality assured drugs. We assure to deliver best-priced medication in excellent quality right at your doorsteps.