Montelukast

[andy121]

Hi all, I had my asthma review this morning which I think went well. I been struggling for quite awhile with blocked sinuses and asthma symptoms when exerting myself dispite being on max dose Fostair 100/6 8 puffs on the mart regime, nasal spray, antihistamines and nasal rinses. The nurse suggested refering me to a consultant, get a chest x-ray and have put me on montelukast even though I've read some good and bad stories I'm still willing to give it a try. I'd be interested to know what a consultant will do nurse did mention lung function tests but don't know what else. Think I switched off after half an hour 😂

[twinkly29]

They will look at your history, symptoms, current meds, do lung function tests, etc. Partly to see what you'd benefit from but partly in case there are also other things that are joining in that need dealing with in s different way (which also the means they can work out how to treat the asthma element effectively).

Sounds a long but productive appointment this morning though. Even if you have a wait, it's better to be on a list than not to be.

Regarding the montelukast, try and ignore the horror stories - yes some people will have issues but that's no different to any medication. Many more people take it without any ill effects - so hopefully you'll be one of those!

[andy121 in reply to twinkly29]

Thanks for the reply. I didn't think it would be anything to worry about with the consultant. Just a long wait I expect but like you say least I'm on the list. Not got montelukast yet will take a few days to process electronically. Hopefully will be fine.

[Troilus]

Hi Andy. Don’t be overly concerned about the Montelukast. Like you I had a permanently blocked nose. I was on Fostair 200/6 2 puffs twice a day ( which is roughly the same dose as you), antihistamine , Spivira and steroid nasal spray. I hadn’t been able to blow my nose in over a year. I went on Montelukast and within a couple of hours I blew my nose! I also no longer wake up in the night or get up super early so for me it has been a huge benefit and I have not experienced any of the side effects people mention.I hope it has the same benefits for you.

[MindfulBreathing]

Hi Andy121, I've been on Montelukast (Singulaire) tablets for years. My asthma has been quite well managed for a while. They have not affected me adversely, but I could not honestly tell you how much they have helped, because I am also on a steroid inhaler and take ventolin. I was given them as a foundational ongoing treatment, so maybe they are helping to keep my asthma in check.

[Lorcas_15]

I've been on Montelukast for about 10 years. Recently, I ran out of the tabs and did experience the need to use Ventolin once so they may still be stabilising my condition. I have hardly needed Ventolin over the last year as Covid precautions have meant I haven't picked up other viruses. I had also cut down on Fostair by one puff at night.

The only side effects from Montelukast I have ever had is having dreams with crowds of people, and having odd half-memories of things I feel I should be doing when I'm tired!

I wish you all the best with your treatment.

[andy121 in reply to Lorcas_15]

Thanks. I'm hoping to cut down on Fostair eventually too.