Montelukast Singulair
Montelukast, also known as Singulair, is a medication that prevents and treats the symptoms of asthma and allergies. It works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are chemicals that cause inflammation and swelling in the airways. Montelukast is not effective for acute asthma attacks, but it can help reduce the frequency and severity of chronic asthma episodes. Montelukast can also prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and relieve symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergies.
Montelukast is available in different forms, such as tablets, chewable tablets, and oral granules. The dosage and frequency of montelukast depend on the age and condition of the patient. Montelukast should be taken as prescribed by the doctor, usually once a day in the evening. Montelukast can be taken with or without food, but it should not be taken with certain medications that may interact with it, such as phenytoin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, rifabutin, and rifampin.
Montelukast is generally well tolerated, but some people may experience side effects such as headache, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, cough, sore throat, fever, rash, or mood changes. Some rare but serious side effects include allergic reactions, blood vessel inflammation, mental problems (such as anger, aggression, confusion, sleep problems, compulsive behaviors, hallucinations, or suicidal thoughts or actions), or worsening of asthma or breathing problems. If any of these side effects occur, the patient should stop taking montelukast and seek medical attention immediately.
Montelukast is one of the most widely used medications for asthma and allergies worldwide. According to a report by GlobalData, the global montelukast market was valued at $3.7 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.4% from 2020 to 2027. The major factors driving the growth of the market are the increasing prevalence of asthma and allergies, the rising awareness and demand for montelukast among patients and physicians, and the availability of generic versions of montelukast at lower prices.
Price Comparison of Montelukast in Different Countries
| Country | Brand Name | Price per Tablet (10 mg) | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Singulair | $8.77 | GoodRx |
| Canada | Singulair | $2.36 | PharmacyChecker |
| UK | Singulair | $1.32 | PharmacyChecker |
| Australia | Singulair | $0.77 | PharmacyChecker |
| India | Montek LC | $0.06 | MedPlusMart |
| Table 1: Price Comparison of Montelukast in Different Countries. | |||
Top 5 Global Brands of Montelukast
- Singulair: This is the original brand name of montelukast developed by Merck & Co., Inc. It was approved by the FDA in 1998 and has been marketed in over 100 countries. Singulair is available in tablets (4 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg), chewable tablets (4 mg and 5 mg), and oral granules (4 mg).
- Airon: This is a generic version of montelukast produced by Laboratorios Liomont S.A. de C.V., a Mexican pharmaceutical company. It was launched in 2009 and has been distributed in Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Airon is available in tablets (4 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg) and chewable tablets (4 mg and 5 mg).
- Montair: This is a generic version of montelukast manufactured by Cipla Limited, an Indian pharmaceutical company. It was introduced in 2007 and has been sold in India, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and other countries. Montair is available in tablets (4 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg), chewable tablets (4 mg and 5 mg), and oral granules (4 mg).
- Montelair: This is a generic version of montelukast produced by Eurofarma Laboratórios S.A., a Brazilian pharmaceutical company. It was launched in 2010 and has been marketed in Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and other countries. Montelair is available in tablets (4 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg) and chewable tablets (4 mg and 5 mg).
- Montelo-10: This is a generic version of montelukast made by Lupin Limited, an Indian pharmaceutical company. It was released in 2008 and has been exported to the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Montelo-10 is available in tablets (10 mg) only.