Side Effects of Montelukast

Side effects of montelukast that have been seen in adults include headaches, indigestion, and cough. In children, sore throat, sinus infections, and fever have been reported. While most people have no problems when taking the drug, some montelukast side effects are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. This includes signs of an allergic reaction or signs of liver failure.

 

Side Effects of Montelukast: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with montelukast sodium (Singulair®); however, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with montelukast. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of montelukast side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Montelukast in Adults

Montelukast has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which a group of people taking the drug have side effects documented. In these studies, the most common side effects of the drug in adults included:
 
  • Headaches -- in up to 18.4 percent of people
  • The flu -- up to 4.2 percent
  • Abdominal pain (stomach pain) -- up to 2.9 percent
  • Cough -- up to 2.7 percent
  • Indigestion or heartburn -- up to 2.1 percent.
     
Other common side effects (occurring in 1 to 2 percent of people) included:
 
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Fever
  • Trauma (accidental injury)
  • Gastrointestinal infections
  • Tooth pain
  • Dizziness
  • Nasal congestion
  • Rash.
     
(Side Effects of Montelukast Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;