Singulair
Montelukast sodium · Tablet, Chewable · Oral
Uses
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE SINGULAIR is a leukotriene receptor antagonist indicated for: Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in patients 12 months of age and older ( 1.1 ). Acute prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) in patients 6 years of age and older ( 1.2 ). Relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR): seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) in patients 2 years of age and older, and perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) in patients 6 months of age and older. Reserve use for patients who have an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies ( 1.3 ). Limitations of Use: Not indicated to treat an acute asthma attack ( 5.2 ). 1.1 Asthma SINGULAIR ® is indicated for the prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in adults and pediatric patients 12 months of age and older. 1.2 Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB) SINGULAIR is indicated for prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) in patients 6 years of age and older. 1.3 Allergic Rhinitis SINGULAIR is indicated for the relief of symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients 2 years of age and older and perennial allergic rhinitis in patients 6 months of age and older. Because the benefits of SINGULAIR may not outweigh the risk of neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with allergic rhinitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] , reserve use for patients who have an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies. 1.4 Limitations of Use SINGULAIR is not indicated for the treatment of an acute asthma attack.
Dosage and administration
Administration (by indications): Asthma: Once daily in the evening for patients 12 months and older ( 2.1 ). Acute prevention of EIB: One tablet at least 2 hours before exercise for patients 6 years of age and older ( 2.2 ). Seasonal allergic rhinitis: Once daily for patients 2 years and older ( 2.3 ). Perennial allergic rhinitis: Once daily for patients 6 months and older ( 2.3 ). Dosage (by age): 15 years and older: one 10-mg tablet ( 2 ). 6 to 14 years: one 5-mg chewable tablet ( 2 ). 2 to 5 years: one 4-mg chewable tablet or one packet of 4-mg oral granules ( 2 ). 6 to 23 months: one packet of 4-mg oral granules ( 2 ). Patients with both asthma and allergic rhinitis should take only one dose daily in the evening ( 2.4 ). For oral granules: Must administer within 15 minutes after opening the packet (with or without mixing with food) ( 2.5 ). 2.1 Asthma For asthma, administer SINGULAIR orally once daily in the evening, with or without food. There have been no clinical trials in patients with asthma to evaluate the relative efficacy of morning versus evening dosing. The following doses are recommended: Table 1: Recommended Dosage in Asthma Age Dose Adult and adolescent patients 15 years of age and older one 10 mg tablet Pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age one 5 mg chewable tablet Pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age one 4 mg chewable tablet or one packet of oral granules Pediatric patients 12 to 23 months of age Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients less than 12 months of age with asthma have not been established. one packet 4 mg oral granules Patients who miss a dose should take the next dose at their regular time and should not take 2 doses at the same time. 2.2 Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB) For prevention of EIB, administer a single dose of SINGULAIR orally at least 2 hours, before exercise. The following doses are recommended: Table 2: Recommended Dosage in Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB) Age Dose Adult and adolescent patients 15 years of age and older one 10 mg tablet Pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age Safety and effectiveness in patients younger than 6 years of age have not been established. one 5 mg chewable tablet An additional dose of SINGULAIR should not be taken within 24 hours of a previous dose. Patients already taking SINGULAIR daily for another indication (including chronic asthma) should not take an additional dose to prevent EIB. All patients should have available for rescue a short-acting β-agonist. Daily administration of SINGULAIR for the chronic treatment of asthma has not been established to prevent acute episodes of EIB. 2.3 Allergic Rhinitis For allergic rhinitis, administer SINGULAIR orally once daily without regard to time of food ingestion. Time of administration in patients with allergic rhinitis can be individualized to suit patient needs. The following doses for the treatment of symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis are recommended: Table 3: Recommended Dosage in Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis Age Dose Adult and adolescent patients 15 years of age and older one 10 mg tablet Pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age one 5 mg chewable tablet Pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients younger than 2 years of age with seasonal allergic rhinitis have not been established. one 4 mg chewable tablet or one packet of 4 mg oral granules The following doses for the treatment of symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis are recommended: Table 4: Recommended Dosage in Perennial Allergic Rhinitis Age Dose Adult and adolescent patients 15 years of age and older one 10 mg tablet Pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age one 5 mg chewable tablet Pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age one 4 mg chewable tablet or one packet of 4 mg oral granules Pediatric patients 6 to 23 months of age Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients younger than 6 months of age with perennial allergic rhinitis have not been established. one packet of 4 mg oral granules Patients who miss a dose should take the next dose at their regular time and should not take 2 doses at the same time. 2.4 Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis For patients with both asthma and allergic rhinitis, administer only one SINGULAIR dose orally once daily in the evening. Patients who miss a dose should take the next dose at their regular time and should not take 2 doses at the same time. 2.5 Instructions for Administration of Oral Granules SINGULAIR 4-mg oral granules can be administered either directly in the mouth, dissolved in 1 teaspoonful (5 mL) of cold or room temperature baby formula or breast milk, or mixed with a spoonful of cold or room temperature soft foods; based on stability studies, only applesauce, carrots, rice, or ice cream should be used. The packet should not be opened until ready to use. After opening the packet, the full dose (with or without mixing with baby formula, breast milk, or food) must be administered within 15 minutes. If mixed with baby formula, breast milk, or food, SINGULAIR oral granules must not be stored for future use. Discard any unused portion. SINGULAIR oral granules are not intended to be dissolved in any liquid other than baby formula or breast milk for administration. However, liquids may be taken subsequent to administration. SINGULAIR oral granules can be administered without regard to the time of meals.
Dosage forms and strengths
Tablets: 10 mg, beige, rounded square-shaped, film-coated tablets, with code MSD 117 on one side and SINGULAIR on the other. Chewable Tablets: 5 mg, pink, round, bi-convex-shaped, with code MSD 275 on one side and SINGULAIR on the other. Chewable Tablets: 4 mg, pink, oval, bi-convex-shaped, with code MSD 711 on one side and SINGULAIR on the other. Oral Granules: 4 mg, white granules with 500 mg net weight, packed in a child-resistant foil packet. Tablets: 10 mg ( 3 ) Chewable tablets: 5 mg and 4 mg ( 3 ) Oral granules: 4 mg ( 3 )
Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS SINGULAIR is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to any of its components. Hypersensitivity to any component of SINGULAIR ( 4 ).
Warnings and precautions
Do not prescribe SINGULAIR to treat an acute asthma attack ( 5.2 ). Advise patients to have appropriate rescue medication available ( 5.2 ). Inhaled corticosteroid may be reduced gradually. Do not abruptly substitute SINGULAIR for inhaled or oral corticosteroids ( 5.3 ). Patients with known aspirin sensitivity should continue to avoid aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents while taking SINGULAIR ( 5.4 ). Systemic eosinophilia, sometimes presenting with clinical features of vasculitis consistent with Churg-Strauss syndrome, has been reported. These events have been sometimes associated with the reduction of oral corticosteroid therapy ( 5.5 and 6.2 ). Inform patients with phenylketonuria that the 4-mg and 5-mg chewable tablets contain phenylalanine ( 5.6 ). 5.1 Neuropsychiatric Events Serious neuropsychiatric (NP) events have been reported with use of SINGULAIR. These postmarketing reports have been highly variable and included, but were not limited to, agitation, aggressive behavior or hostility, anxiousness, depression, disorientation, disturbance in attention, dream abnormalities, dysphemia (stuttering), hallucinations, insomnia, irritability, memory impairment, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, restlessness, somnambulism, suicidal thoughts and behavior (including suicide), tic, and tremor. NP events have been reported in adult, adolescent, and pediatric patients with and without a previous history of psychiatric disorder. NP events have been reported mostly during SINGULAIR treatment, but some were reported after SINGULAIR discontinuation. Animal studies showed that montelukast distributes into the brain in rats [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] ; however, the mechanisms underlying SINGULAIR-associated NP events are currently not well understood. Based upon the available data, it is difficult to identify risk factors for or quantify the risk of NP events with SINGULAIR use. Because of the risk of NP events, the benefits of SINGULAIR may not outweigh the risks in some patients, particularly when the symptoms of disease may be mild and adequately treated with alternative therapies. Reserve use of SINGULAIR for patients with allergic rhinitis who have an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies [see Indications and Usage (1.3) ] . In patients with asthma or exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, consider the benefits and risks before prescribing SINGULAIR. Discuss the benefits and risks of SINGULAIR use with patients and caregivers when prescribing SINGULAIR. Advise patients and/or caregivers to be alert for changes in behavior or for new NP symptoms when taking SINGULAIR. If changes in behavior are observed, or if new NP symptoms or suicidal thoughts and/or behavior occur, advise patients to discontinue SINGULAIR and contact a healthcare provider immediately. In many cases, symptoms resolved after stopping SINGULAIR therapy; however, in some cases symptoms persisted after discontinuation of SINGULAIR. Therefore, continue to monitor and provide supportive care until symptoms resolve. Re-evaluate the benefits and risks of restarting treatment with SINGULAIR if such events occur. 5.2 Acute Asthma SINGULAIR is not indicated for use in the reversal of bronchospasm in acute asthma attacks, including status asthmaticus. Patients should be advised to have appropriate rescue medication available. Therapy with SINGULAIR can be continued during acute exacerbations of asthma. Patients who have exacerbations of asthma after exercise should have available for rescue a short-acting inhaled β-agonist. 5.3 Concomitant Corticosteroid Use While the dose of inhaled corticosteroid may be reduced gradually under medical supervision, SINGULAIR should not be abruptly substituted for inhaled or oral corticosteroids. 5.4 Aspirin Sensitivity Patients with known aspirin sensitivity should continue avoidance of aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents while taking SINGULAIR. Although SINGULAIR is effective in improving airway function in asthmatics with documented aspirin sensitivity, it has not been shown to truncate bronchoconstrictor response to aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in aspirin-sensitive asthmatic patients [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . 5.5 Eosinophilic Conditions Patients with asthma on therapy with SINGULAIR may present with systemic eosinophilia, sometimes presenting with clinical features of vasculitis consistent with Churg-Strauss syndrome, a condition which is often treated with systemic corticosteroid therapy. These events have been sometimes associated with the reduction of oral corticosteroid therapy. Physicians should be alert to eosinophilia, vasculitic rash, worsening pulmonary symptoms, cardiac complications, and/or neuropathy presenting in their patients. A causal association between SINGULAIR and these underlying conditions has not been established [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. 5.6 Risk in Patients with Phenylketonuria SINGULAIR contains aspartame, a source of phenylalanine. Phenylalanine can be harmful to patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). Each 4 mg and 5 mg chewable tablet contains 0.674 mg and 0.842 mg of phenylalanine, respectively. Before prescribing SINGULAIR to a patient with PKU, consider the combined daily amount of phenylalanine from all sources, including SINGULAIR.
Side effects
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Neuropsychiatric Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and greater than placebo listed in descending order of frequency): upper respiratory infection, fever, headache, pharyngitis, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea, otitis media, influenza, rhinorrhea, sinusitis, otitis ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Organon LLC, a subsidiary of Organon & Co., Inc., at 1-844-674-3200 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. In the following description of clinical trials experience, adverse reactions are listed regardless of causality assessment. The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and greater than placebo; listed in descending order of frequency) in controlled clinical trials were: upper respiratory infection, fever, headache, pharyngitis, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea, otitis media, influenza, rhinorrhea, sinusitis, otitis. Adults and Adolescents 15 Years of Age and Older with Asthma SINGULAIR has been evaluated for safety in approximately 2950 adult and adolescent patients 15 years of age and older in clinical trials. In placebo-controlled clinical trials, the following adverse reactions reported with SINGULAIR occurred in greater than or equal to 1% of patients and at an incidence greater than that in patients treated with placebo: Table 5: Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥1% of Patients with an Incidence Greater than that in Patients Treated with Placebo SINGULAIR 10 mg/day (%) (n=1955) Placebo (%) (n=1180) Body As A Whole Pain, abdominal Asthenia/fatigue Fever Trauma 2.9 1.8 1.5 1.0 2.5 1.2 0.9 0.8 Digestive System Disorders Dyspepsia Pain, dental Gastroenteritis, infectious 2.1 1.7 1.5 1.1 1.0 0.5 Nervous System/Psychiatric Headache Dizziness 18.4 1.9 18.1 1.4 Respiratory System Disorders Influenza Cough Congestion, nasal 4.2 2.7 1.6 3.9 2.4 1.3 Skin/Skin Appendages Disorder Rash 1.6 1.2 Laboratory Adverse Reactions Number of patients tested (SINGULAIR and placebo, respectively): ALT and AST, 1935, 1170; pyuria, 1924, 1159. ALT increased AST increased Pyuria 2.1 1.6 1.0 2.0 1.2 0.9 The frequency of less common adverse reactions was comparable between SINGULAIR and placebo. The safety profile of SINGULAIR, when administered as a single dose for prevention of EIB in adult and adolescent patients 15 years of age and older, was consistent with the safety profile previously described for SINGULAIR. Cumulatively, 569 patients were treated with SINGULAIR for at least 6 months, 480 for one year, and 49 for two years in clinical trials. With prolonged treatment, the adverse reaction profile did not significantly change. Pediatric Patients 6 to 14 Years of Age with Asthma SINGULAIR has been evaluated for safety in 476 pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age. Cumulatively, 289 pediatric patients were treated with SINGULAIR for at least 6 months, and 241 for one year or longer in clinical trials. The safety profile of SINGULAIR in the 8-week, double-blind, pediatric efficacy trial was generally similar to the adult safety profile. In pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age receiving SINGULAIR, the following reactions occurred with a frequency ≥2% and more frequently than in pediatric patients who received placebo: pharyngitis, influenza, fever, sinusitis, nausea, diarrhea, dyspepsia, otitis, viral infection, and laryngitis. The frequency of less common adverse reactions was comparable between SINGULAIR and placebo. With prolonged treatment, the adverse reaction profile did not significantly change. The safety profile of SINGULAIR, when administered as a single dose for prevention of EIB in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older, was consistent with the safety profile previously described for SINGULAIR. In studies evaluating growth rate, the safety profile in these pediatric patients was consistent with the safety profile previously described for SINGULAIR. In a 56-week, double-blind study evaluating growth rate in pediatric patients 6 to 8 years of age receiving SINGULAIR, the following reactions not previously observed with the use of SINGULAIR in this age group occurred with a frequency ≥2% and more frequently than in pediatric patients who received placebo: headache, rhinitis (infective), varicella, gastroenteritis, atopic dermatitis, acute bronchitis, tooth infection, skin infection, and myopia. Pediatric Patients 2 to 5 Years of Age with Asthma SINGULAIR has been evaluated for safety in 573 pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age in single- and multiple-dose studies. Cumulatively, 426 pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age were treated with SINGULAIR for at least 3 months, 230 for 6 months or longer, and 63 patients for one year or longer in clinical trials. In pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age receiving SINGULAIR, the following reactions occurred with a frequency ≥2% and more frequently than in pediatric patients who received placebo: fever, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, rhinorrhea, sinusitis, otitis, influenza, rash, ear pain, gastroenteritis, eczema, urticaria, varicella, pneumonia, dermatitis, and conjunctivitis. Pediatric Patients 6 to 23 Months of Age with Asthma Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients younger than 12 months of age with asthma have not been established. SINGULAIR has been evaluated for safety in 175 pediatric patients 6 to 23 months of age. The safety profile of SINGULAIR in a 6-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was generally similar to the safety profile in adults and pediatric patients 2 to 14 years of age.
Drug interactions
No dose adjustment is needed when SINGULAIR is co-administered with theophylline, prednisone, prednisolone, oral contraceptives, fexofenadine, digoxin, warfarin, gemfibrozil, itraconazole, thyroid hormones, sedative hypnotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, benzodiazepines, decongestants, and Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme inducers [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ].
Use in specific populations
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published prospective and retrospective cohort studies over decades with montelukast use in pregnant women have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects [see Data ] . In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed with oral administration of montelukast to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses approximately 100 and 110 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human daily oral dose (MRHDOD) based on AUCs [see Data ]. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk Poorly or moderately controlled asthma in pregnancy increases the maternal risk of perinatal adverse outcomes such as preeclampsia and infant prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age. Data Human Data Published data from prospective and retrospective cohort studies have not identified an association with SINGULAIR use during pregnancy and major birth defects. Available studies have methodologic limitations, including small sample size, in some cases retrospective data collection, and inconsistent comparator groups. Animal Data In embryo-fetal development studies, montelukast administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 17 in rats and 6 to 18 in rabbits) did not cause any adverse developmental effects at maternal oral doses up to 400 and 300 mg/kg/day in rats and rabbits, respectively (approximately 100 and 110 times the AUC in humans at the MRHDOD, respectively). 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary A published clinical lactation study reports the presence of montelukast in human milk. Data available on the effects of the drug on infants, either directly [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] or through breast milk, do not suggest a significant risk of adverse reactions from exposure to SINGULAIR. The effects of the drug on milk production are unknown. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for SINGULAIR and any potential adverse reactions on the breastfed infant from SINGULAIR or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of SINGULAIR for asthma have been established in pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age. Use of SINGULAIR for this indication is supported by evidence from well-controlled studies. Safety and efficacy data in this age group are similar to those seen in adults [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology, Specific Populations (12.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.1 , 14.2 )]. The effectiveness of SINGULAIR for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis in pediatric patients 2 to 14 years of age and for the treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis in pediatric patients 6 months to 14 years of age have been established and is supported by extrapolation from the demonstrated effectiveness in patients 15 years of age and older with allergic rhinitis as well as the assumption that the disease course, pathophysiology and the drug’s effect are substantially similar among these populations. The safety of SINGULAIR 4-mg chewable tablets in pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age with asthma has been demonstrated by adequate and well-controlled data [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Effectiveness of SINGULAIR in this age group is extrapolated from the demonstrated effectiveness in patients 6 years of age and older with asthma and is based on similar pharmacokinetic data, as well as the assumption that the disease course, pathophysiology and the drug’s effect are substantially similar among these populations. Effectiveness in this age group is supported by exploratory efficacy assessments from a large, well-controlled safety study conducted in patients 2 to 5 years of age. The safety of SINGULAIR 4-mg oral granules in pediatric patients 12 to 23 months of age with asthma has been demonstrated in an analysis of 172 pediatric patients, 124 of whom were treated with SINGULAIR, in a 6-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Effectiveness of SINGULAIR in this age group is extrapolated from the demonstrated effectiveness in patients 6 years of age and older with asthma based on similar mean systemic exposure (AUC), and that the disease course, pathophysiology and the drug's effect are substantially similar among these populations, supported by efficacy data from a safety trial in which efficacy was an exploratory assessment. The safety of SINGULAIR 4-mg and 5-mg chewable tablets in pediatric patients aged 2 to 14 years with allergic rhinitis is supported by data from studies conducted in pediatric patients aged 2 to 14 years with asthma. A safety study in pediatric patients 2 to 14 years of age with seasonal allergic rhinitis demonstrated a similar safety profile [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. The safety of SINGULAIR 4-mg oral granules in pediatric patients as young as 6 months of age with perennial allergic rhinitis is supported by extrapolation from safety data obtained from studies conducted in pediatric patients 6 months to 23 months of age with asthma and from pharmacokinetic data comparing systemic exposures in patients 6 months to 23 months of age to systemic exposures in adults. The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of 12 months with asthma, 6 months with perennial allergic rhinitis, and 6 years with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction have not been established.
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published prospective and retrospective cohort studies over decades with montelukast use in pregnant women have not established a drug-associated risk of major birth defects [see Data ] . In animal reproduction studies, no adverse developmental effects were observed with oral administration of montelukast to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses approximately 100 and 110 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human daily oral dose (MRHDOD) based on AUCs [see Data ]. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk Poorly or moderately controlled asthma in pregnancy increases the maternal risk of perinatal adverse outcomes such as preeclampsia and infant prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age. Data Human Data Published data from prospective and retrospective cohort studies have not identified an association with SINGULAIR use during pregnancy and major birth defects. Available studies have methodologic limitations, including small sample size, in some cases retrospective data collection, and inconsistent comparator groups. Animal Data In embryo-fetal development studies, montelukast administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis (gestation days 6 to 17 in rats and 6 to 18 in rabbits) did not cause any adverse developmental effects at maternal oral doses up to 400 and 300 mg/kg/day in rats and rabbits, respectively (approximately 100 and 110 times the AUC in humans at the MRHDOD, respectively).
Pediatric use
8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of SINGULAIR for asthma have been established in pediatric patients 6 to 14 years of age. Use of SINGULAIR for this indication is supported by evidence from well-controlled studies. Safety and efficacy data in this age group are similar to those seen in adults [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology, Specific Populations (12.3) , and Clinical Studies (14.1 , 14.2 )]. The effectiveness of SINGULAIR for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis in pediatric patients 2 to 14 years of age and for the treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis in pediatric patients 6 months to 14 years of age have been established and is supported by extrapolation from the demonstrated effectiveness in patients 15 years of age and older with allergic rhinitis as well as the assumption that the disease course, pathophysiology and the drug’s effect are substantially similar among these populations. The safety of SINGULAIR 4-mg chewable tablets in pediatric patients 2 to 5 years of age with asthma has been demonstrated by adequate and well-controlled data [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Effectiveness of SINGULAIR in this age group is extrapolated from the demonstrated effectiveness in patients 6 years of age and older with asthma and is based on similar pharmacokinetic data, as well as the assumption that the disease course, pathophysiology and the drug’s effect are substantially similar among these populations. Effectiveness in this age group is supported by exploratory efficacy assessments from a large, well-controlled safety study conducted in patients 2 to 5 years of age. The safety of SINGULAIR 4-mg oral granules in pediatric patients 12 to 23 months of age with asthma has been demonstrated in an analysis of 172 pediatric patients, 124 of whom were treated with SINGULAIR, in a 6-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Effectiveness of SINGULAIR in this age group is extrapolated from the demonstrated effectiveness in patients 6 years of age and older with asthma based on similar mean systemic exposure (AUC), and that the disease course, pathophysiology and the drug's effect are substantially similar among these populations, supported by efficacy data from a safety trial in which efficacy was an exploratory assessment. The safety of SINGULAIR 4-mg and 5-mg chewable tablets in pediatric patients aged 2 to 14 years with allergic rhinitis is supported by data from studies conducted in pediatric patients aged 2 to 14 years with asthma. A safety study in pediatric patients 2 to 14 years of age with seasonal allergic rhinitis demonstrated a similar safety profile [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. The safety of SINGULAIR 4-mg oral granules in pediatric patients as young as 6 months of age with perennial allergic rhinitis is supported by extrapolation from safety data obtained from studies conducted in pediatric patients 6 months to 23 months of age with asthma and from pharmacokinetic data comparing systemic exposures in patients 6 months to 23 months of age to systemic exposures in adults. The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of 12 months with asthma, 6 months with perennial allergic rhinitis, and 6 years with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction have not been established. Growth Rate in Pediatric Patients A 56-week, multi-center, double-blind, randomized, active- and placebo-controlled parallel group study was conducted to assess the effect of SINGULAIR on growth rate in 360 patients with mild asthma, aged 6 to 8 years. Treatment groups included SINGULAIR 5 mg once daily, placebo, and beclomethasone dipropionate administered as 168 mcg twice daily with a spacer device. For each subject, a growth rate was defined as the slope of a linear regression line fit to the height measurements over 56 weeks. The primary comparison was the difference in growth rates between SINGULAIR and placebo groups. Growth rates, expressed as least-squares (LS) mean (95% CI) in cm/year, for the SINGULAIR, placebo, and beclomethasone treatment groups were 5.67 (5.46, 5.88), 5.64 (5.42, 5.86), and 4.86 (4.64, 5.08), respectively. The differences in growth rates, expressed as least-squares (LS) mean (95% CI) in cm/year, for SINGULAIR minus placebo, beclomethasone minus placebo, and SINGULAIR minus beclomethasone treatment groups were 0.03 (-0.26, 0.31), -0.78 (-1.06, -0.49); and 0.81 (0.53, 1.09), respectively. Growth rate (expressed as mean change in height over time) for each treatment group is shown in FIGURE 1. Figure 1: Change in Height (cm) from Randomization Visit by Scheduled Week (Treatment Group Mean ± Standard Error The standard errors of the treatment group means in change in height are too small to be visible on the plot of the Mean)
Geriatric use
8.5 Geriatric Use Of the total number of subjects in clinical studies of montelukast, 3.5% were 65 years of age and over, and 0.4% were 75 years of age and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. The pharmacokinetic profile and the oral bioavailability of a single 10-mg oral dose of montelukast are similar in elderly and younger adults. The plasma half-life of montelukast is slightly longer in the elderly. No dosage adjustment in the elderly is required.
Overdosage
No specific information is available on the treatment of overdosage with SINGULAIR. In the event of overdose, it is reasonable to employ the usual supportive measures; e.g., remove unabsorbed material from the gastrointestinal tract, employ clinical monitoring, and institute supportive therapy, if required. It is not known whether montelukast is removed by peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis.
Description
Montelukast sodium, the active ingredient in SINGULAIR, is a selective and orally active leukotriene receptor antagonist that inhibits the cysteinyl leukotriene CysLT 1 receptor. Montelukast sodium is described chemically as [ R -( E )]-1-[[[1-[3-[2-(7-chloro-2-quinolinyl)ethenyl]phenyl]-3-[2-(1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl)phenyl]propyl]thio]methyl]cyclopropaneacetic acid, monosodium salt. The empirical formula is C 35 H 35 ClNNaO 3 S, and its molecular weight is 608.18. The structural formula is: Montelukast sodium is a hygroscopic, optically active, white to off-white powder. Montelukast sodium is freely soluble in ethanol, methanol, and water and practically insoluble in acetonitrile. Each 10-mg film-coated SINGULAIR tablet contains 10.4 mg montelukast sodium, which is equivalent to 10 mg of montelukast, and the following inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and magnesium stearate. The film coating consists of: hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, titanium dioxide, red ferric oxide, yellow ferric oxide, and carnauba wax. Each 4-mg and 5-mg chewable SINGULAIR tablet contains 4.2 and 5.2 mg montelukast sodium, respectively, which are equivalent to 4 and 5 mg of montelukast, respectively. Both chewable tablets contain the following inactive ingredients: mannitol, microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, red ferric oxide, croscarmellose sodium, cherry flavor, aspartame, and magnesium stearate. Each packet of SINGULAIR 4-mg oral granules contains 4.2 mg montelukast sodium, which is equivalent to 4 mg of montelukast. The oral granule formulation contains the following inactive ingredients: mannitol, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and magnesium stearate. image of montelukast sodium chemical structure
Mechanism of action
12.1 Mechanism of Action The cysteinyl leukotrienes (LTC 4 , LTD 4 , LTE 4 ) are products of arachidonic acid metabolism and are released from various cells, including mast cells and eosinophils. These eicosanoids bind to cysteinyl leukotriene (CysLT) receptors. The CysLT type-1 (CysLT 1 ) receptor is found in the human airway (including airway smooth muscle cells and airway macrophages) and on other pro-inflammatory cells (including eosinophils and certain myeloid stem cells). CysLTs have been correlated with the pathophysiology of asthma and allergic rhinitis. In asthma, leukotriene-mediated effects include airway edema, smooth muscle contraction, and altered cellular activity associated with the inflammatory process. In allergic rhinitis, CysLTs are released from the nasal mucosa after allergen exposure during both early- and late-phase reactions and are associated with symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Montelukast is an orally active compound that binds with high affinity and selectivity to the CysLT 1 receptor (in preference to other pharmacologically important airway receptors, such as the prostanoid, cholinergic, or β-adrenergic receptor). Montelukast inhibits physiologic actions of LTD 4 at the CysLT 1 receptor without any agonist activity.
How supplied
4 mg Oral Granules: white granules with 500 mg net weight, packed in a child-resistant foil packet. NDC 78206-171-01 unit of use carton with 30 packets. SINGULAIR 4 mg Tablets: pink, oval, bi-convex-shaped chewable tablets, with code MSD 711 on one side and SINGULAIR on the other. NDC 78206-170-01 unit of use high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles of 30 with a polypropylene child-resistant cap, an aluminum foil induction seal, and silica gel desiccant. SINGULAIR 5 mg Tablets: pink, round, bi-convex-shaped chewable tablets, with code MSD 275 on one side and SINGULAIR on the other. NDC 78206-173-01 unit of use high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles of 30 with a polypropylene child-resistant cap, an aluminum foil induction seal, and silica gel desiccant. SINGULAIR 10 mg Tablets: beige, rounded square-shaped, film-coated tablets, with code MSD 117 on one side and SINGULAIR on the other. NDC 78206-172-01 unit of use high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles of 30 with a polypropylene child-resistant cap, an aluminum foil induction seal, and silica gel desiccant NDC 78206-172-02 unit of use high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottles of 90 with a polypropylene child-resistant cap, an aluminum foil induction seal, and silica gel desiccant. Storage Store SINGULAIR 4-mg oral granules, 4-mg chewable tablets, 5-mg chewable tablets and 10-mg film-coated tablets at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from moisture and light. Store in original package.
Storage
Storage Store SINGULAIR 4-mg oral granules, 4-mg chewable tablets, 5-mg chewable tablets and 10-mg film-coated tablets at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from moisture and light. Store in original package.
Patient information
For the tablets and chewable tablets, advise the patient and/or caregiver to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Medication Guide ). For the oral granules, advise the patient and/or caregiver to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Medication Guide and Instructions for Use ). Advise patients about the potential risk for serious neuropsychiatric symptoms and behavioral changes with SINGULAIR use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Discuss the benefits and risks of SINGULAIR with patients when prescribing or continuing treatment with SINGULAIR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Advise patients to monitor for changes in behavior or neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients taking SINGULAIR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Instruct patients to discontinue SINGULAIR and contact a healthcare provider immediately if changes in behavior or thinking that are not typical for the patient occur, or if the patient develops suicidal ideation or suicidal behavior [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Advise patients to take SINGULAIR daily as prescribed, even when they are asymptomatic, as well as during periods of worsening asthma, and to contact their physicians if their asthma is not well controlled. Advise patients that oral SINGULAIR is not for the treatment of acute asthma attacks. They should have appropriate short-acting inhaled β-agonist medication available to treat asthma exacerbations. Patients who have exacerbations of asthma after exercise should be instructed to have available for rescue a short-acting inhaled β-agonist. Daily administration of SINGULAIR for the chronic treatment of asthma has not been established to prevent acute episodes of EIB [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Advise patients to seek medical attention if short-acting inhaled bronchodilators are needed more often than usual, or if more than the maximum number of inhalations of short-acting bronchodilator treatment prescribed for a 24-hour period are needed. Instruct patients to continue other anti-asthma medications as prescribed unless instructed by a physician. Instruct patients with known aspirin sensitivity to continue avoidance of aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents while taking SINGULAIR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Inform phenylketonuric patients that the 4-mg and 5-mg chewable tablets contain phenylalanine (a source of aspartame) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] .
Label text from the FDA structured product label by Organon LLC (revised Apr 30, 2025). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.
Active ingredients
- Montelukast Sodium in 4 products
Singulair NDC products (4)
| NDC | Strength & form | Labeler | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 78206-170 | Montelukast Sodium 4 mg/1 Tablet, Chewable | Organon LLC | NDA |
| 78206-171 | Montelukast Sodium 4 mg/1 Granule | Organon LLC | NDA |
| 78206-172 | Montelukast Sodium 10 mg/1 Tablet, Film Coated | Organon LLC | NDA |
| 78206-173 | Montelukast Sodium 5 mg/1 Tablet, Chewable | Organon LLC | NDA |
Frequently asked questions
What is Singulair used for?
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE SINGULAIR is a leukotriene receptor antagonist indicated for: Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma in patients 12 months of age and older ( 1.1 ). Acute prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) in patients 6 years of age and older ( 1.2 ). Relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR): seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) in patients 2 years of age and…
What are the side effects of Singulair?
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Neuropsychiatric Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and greater than placebo listed in descending order of frequency): upper respiratory infection, fever, headache, pharyngitis, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea, otitis media, influenza, rhinorrhea,… See the full label for the complete list.
Who makes Singulair?
Singulair is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including Organon LLC.