Montelukast
Two montelukast products sit on this shelf: Singulair, spanning 4 mg to 10 mg, and Montair at 10 mg. Both are tablets listed for Asthma, Allergic Rhinitis and exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.
Key points
- Montelukast carries a boxed warning for serious neuropsychiatric events: agitation, aggression, depression, sleep disturbance and suicidal thoughts have all been reported. The label advises stopping the medicine and contacting a healthcare provider if these occur.
- Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist. It blocks inflammatory chemicals called leukotrienes that narrow the airways, increase mucus and draw immune cells into lung tissue.
- Singulair is the original brand from Merck; Montair is Cipla’s generic version. Both contain montelukast sodium and share the same indications.
Brands and forms on this shelf
Singulair is available at 4 mg, 5 mg and 10 mg tablets; Montair is listed at 10 mg only. Singulair is marketed by Merck as the original brand; Montair is Cipla’s generic version of the same active ingredient. Both products sit in the Respiratory Health category.
Further reading
What is montelukast used for?
Montelukast is used to treat asthma and allergic rhinitis and to prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.
How does montelukast work?
Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist. It blocks inflammatory chemicals called leukotrienes that narrow the airways, increase mucus production and attract immune cells into lung tissue.
How long does montelukast take to work?
Montelukast starts to work within 1 to 2 hours and its effect lasts about 24 hours.
What are the side effects of montelukast?
Common side effects include headache, nausea and cough, while sinusitis, abdominal pain and fatigue can also occur. Serious side effects include neuropsychiatric changes and systemic eosinophilia, which need immediate medical attention. If you notice any serious side effect, seek immediate medical attention.
Can montelukast be taken with other medicines?
Montelukast can interact with phenobarbital and rifampicin. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any other medicines you take.
Which montelukast products does Direct Meds sell?
On Direct Meds, montelukast comes as Singulair and Montair. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
What does montelukast cost in rand?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Can I buy montelukast over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order montelukast. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I buy montelukast online in South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →