Singulair is used to prevent asthma attacks, relieve allergy symptoms and prevent exercise-induced breathing problems. According to Drugs.com, Singulair is safe to use in children as young as six months old. Singulair, known by the generic name montelukast, is a leukotriene inhibitor. Leukotriene inhibitors are drugs that reduce the body's production of leukotrienes, the chemicals responsible for asthma and allergy symptoms. While considered safe for pediatric use, Singulair does have some side effects that should be monitored for during treatment.
Abdominal Upset
One of the more common side effects of Singulair is abdominal upset. Children may experience belly pain, nausea, vomiting, heartburn or diarrhea. These symptoms are generally mild and should resolve on their own. Contact your child's pediatrician if these symptoms continue to persist or increase in severity, as medical intervention may be required. Your pediatrician can also tell you how to treat these symptoms should they arise.
Flu-Like Symptoms
Some children may also experience flu-like symptoms while being treated with Singulair. Symptoms include headache, fever, weakness, shakes, sweating and body aches. Determining between these side effects and an actual case of flu may be difficult. If you feel your child may have the flu, a doctor's visit is in order. Your pediatrician will be able to test your child to determine the true cause of these symptoms. There are medications available that decrease the severity of actual flu symptoms, however, they only work if taken in the early stages of the illness.
Behavioral Changes
According to Singulair.com, some children may experience behavior or mood-related symptoms while taking Singulair. Behavioral side effects can include anger, agitation, aggression, bad or vivid dreams, anxiety, hallucinations, trouble sleeping, nervousness, irritability and trembling. Occasionally, severe mood-related symptoms are noted such as depression and thoughts of suicide. Because of the life-threatening potential of these symptoms, any noted behavioral changes should be reported to your pediatrician right away.
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