The Side Effects of Singulair in Toddlers

Singulair and its generic form, montelukast are used to treat allergies and asthma. According to DoubleCheck MD, montelukast can be used to prevent asthma attacks in toddlers from 12 months of age and beyond. Also, it can be used to treat allergy symptoms from the age of 6 months and older. Young toddlers may be prescribed Singulair Oral Granules, since these granules can be mixed in soft or baby food without difficulty. Older toddlers and young children may take chewable tablets.

In Young Toddlers

Very young toddlers who are prescribed Singulair Oral Granules may experience a variety of common side effects. These effects may include flu-like symptoms or an upper respiratory infection along with cough, fever, nasal congestion or pain in the ears. Other side effects may consist of dizziness, drowsiness or headaches. Some gastric upset is possible, such as diarrhea, heartburn or stomach pain, and nausea. Additionally, some skin irritation problems may present. These side effects are not considered severe and typically decrease as the body adjusts to the medication.

Older Toddlers

Older toddlers may be prescribed Singulair in chewable tablet form. The more frequent side effects this form of the medication are similar to those that develop from the oral granules. Specifically, possible side effects include cough and nasal stuffiness, headaches, and fever, or upper respiratory infections. Minor gastric upset may occur, for example, stomach discomfort with some nausea may be experienced. A feeling of dizziness or restless activity may be noted. Again, these effects are not viewed as severe and typically subside with time.

Severe

It is rare for a toddler or child to experience serious effects while taking the oral granules, however, major effects may involve serious allergic reactions such as hives, seizures, severe stomach pain, nausea and vomiting or breathing problems. Singulair chewable tablets may produce rare but associated serious effects that involve aggression or irritability, hallucinations, as well as bleeding or bruising problems. Oddly, an increase in asthma symptoms may be noticeable along with flu-like symptoms. Major gastric disturbance may occur, including diarrhea with severe stomach cramping and vomiting. Again, while infrequent, dark urine output, jaundice or numbness may be experienced. In rare cases, signs typical of an allergic reaction, (rash, facial swelling, trouble breathing or chest tightness) may develop. In such instances, immediate or emergency medical care is needed for the toddler.

References

Article reviewed by Jerri Farris Last updated on: Nov 29, 2009

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