3 Singulair Interactions: What To Avoid When You’re Taking Singulair

Alan Lucks | MD

Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on January 1st, 2026.

Key Takeaways

  • Singulair (montelukast) can interact with several medications, supplements, and substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or causing side effects.

  • Everyday interactions include certain antibiotics, seizure medications, and herbal supplements that affect liver enzymes.

  • Alcohol may increase side effects like dizziness or mood changes when combined with Singulair.

  • Food generally does not affect Singulair absorption, but always follow your doctor’s advice on timing and diet.

  • Personalized advice on Singulair interactions is available through telehealth services like Doctronic.ai, which takes into account your medical history and dosage.

  • Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take to avoid harmful interactions.

  • Seek medical attention if you experience unusual symptoms or suspect an interaction with Singulair.

Understanding Singulair Interactions for Safe Usage

Singulair, also known as montelukast, is a medication commonly prescribed to help prevent asthma attacks and reduce allergy symptoms. While it is generally safe and well-tolerated, Singulair can interact with other medications, supplements, and lifestyle factors, which may affect how well it works or increase the risk of side effects. Understanding these interactions is important for using Singulair safely and effectively.

Singulair is processed by the liver, so drugs that affect liver enzymes can interfere with its action. Certain antibiotics, such as rifampin, and seizure medications like phenytoin can lower Singulair levels in the body, making it less effective. On the other hand, some medications may increase side effects. Herbal supplements, especially St. John’s Wort, can also speed up the liver's breakdown of Singulair, reducing its benefits.

Alcohol is another factor to consider. While light drinking may not cause problems for everyone, alcohol can worsen side effects like dizziness or mood changes in some people. Over-the-counter medications and supplements should also be reviewed, as they may indirectly affect asthma control.

To stay safe, always tell your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and habits. Telehealth services like Doctronic.ai can help review potential interactions and provide personalized guidance to ensure your Singulair treatment works as intended.

1. Singulair and Phenobarbital

Phenobarbital, a medication commonly prescribed for seizures, can reduce the effectiveness of Singulair. This happens because phenobarbital increases the metabolism of montelukast in the liver, resulting in lower blood levels of the drug.

Lower levels of Singulair may mean less control over asthma symptoms or allergies. If you are prescribed both, your doctor might need to adjust your Singulair dose or monitor your symptoms more closely.

The interaction between these two medications highlights the importance of communication between patients and healthcare providers. Patients must inform their doctors about all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This comprehensive overview enables healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about treatment plans, ensuring patients receive the most effective care tailored to their specific needs.

Additionally, understanding the pharmacokinetics of these drugs can empower patients to take an active role in managing their health. For instance, knowing that phenobarbital can affect Singulair may prompt patients to monitor their asthma symptoms more closely and discuss any changes with their healthcare provider. This proactive approach can lead to better management of both seizure control and respiratory health, ultimately improving the quality of life for those affected by these conditions.

2. Singulair and Rifampin

Rifampin, an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis and other infections, also speeds up the breakdown of Singulair. This interaction can significantly reduce Singulair’s effectiveness, potentially leading to worsening asthma or allergic symptoms.

Patients on rifampin should inform their healthcare providers about their Singulair use so that alternative treatments or dosage adjustments can be considered.

3. Singulair and Aspirin

Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can sometimes worsen asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. While this is not a direct drug interaction with Singulair, combining these medications may reduce overall asthma control.

If you notice increased wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath after taking aspirin or NSAIDs while on Singulair, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Mother helping her child use an asthma inhaler during a breathing difficultySingulair Interactions with Supplements and OTC Medications

Herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort are known to induce liver enzymes that metabolize many drugs, including Singulair. Taking St. John’s Wort with Singulair may reduce Singulair's concentration, making it less effective.

Over-the-counter medications such as certain antacids typically do not interact with Singulair. Still, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before combining any new supplements or OTC products with your prescription.

Singulair and Alcohol

While Singulair itself does not have a direct dangerous interaction with alcohol, consuming alcohol can worsen side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness. This combination may impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, like driving.

Alcohol can exacerbate asthma symptoms in some people, which may counteract Singulair’s benefits. It’s wise to limit alcohol intake and discuss your habits with your doctor or through a telehealth visit at Doctronic.ai.

Singulair and Food Interactions

Fortunately, food does not significantly impact the absorption or effectiveness of Singulair. You can take it with or without meals according to your preference or your doctor’s instructions.

Still, maintaining a consistent routine when taking Singulair helps ensure steady medication levels in your body, which supports better symptom control.

Avoiding Singulair Interactions

To minimize risks, always keep a detailed list of all medications, supplements, and substances you use. Share this list with every healthcare provider you see. This transparency helps prevent harmful drug interactions.

Using Doctronic.ai can provide quick, personalized interaction checks. Their AI doctor remembers your history and dosage, offering tailored advice that helps you avoid dangerous combinations.

When to Contact Your Doctor About Singulair Interactions

If you experience symptoms like increased asthma attacks, unusual mood changes, severe dizziness, or allergic reactions while taking Singulair, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately. These signs could indicate an interaction or a side effect that needs medical attention.

Don’t hesitate to use telehealth platforms for timely consultations. Quick access to medical advice can prevent complications and keep your treatment on track.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Singulair is often prescribed alongside inhalers or steroids. However, always follow your doctor’s instructions and inform them about all your medications to ensure safe combinations.

Moderate alcohol may be safe for some, but it can increase side effects like dizziness or mood changes. It’s best to discuss alcohol use with your healthcare provider.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s near the time for your next dose. Do not double up doses. Consistency helps maintain symptom control.

Some patients report mood or behavioral changes. If you notice new or worsening symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Doctronic’s AI doctor offers personalized interaction checks based on your medical history and current medications. This service helps you avoid harmful combinations and manage your treatment safely from home.

References

The Bottom Line

Singulair is a valuable medication for managing asthma and allergy symptoms, but like all drugs, it comes with interaction risks. Awareness of these interactions and proactive communication with your healthcare providers are key to safe use.

Leveraging modern telehealth services such as Doctronic.ai can make managing your medications easier and safer. Their AI-driven platform provides fast, personalized medical advice that adapts to your unique health profile.

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