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| Medicine name | How its taken | Device | Side effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montelukast(Singulair®) | Preventer. Taken regularly every evening. | Tablets, chewable tablets and granules. | When your child first starts taking montelukast they may have the following side-effects. Most of these wear off as your child gets used to the medicine. If they are still a problem after about 2 weeks, contact your doctor. They may feel or be sick (vomit) and have diarrhoea. They may get headache or muscle pain (myalgia). They may have a dry mouth or feel thirsty. Eating citrus fruits (e.g. oranges) and taking sips of water may help. Your child’s skin may feel itchy. Using a moisturising cream may help. Your child may have nightmares or problems sleeping. Your child may feel tense, nervous or ‘on edge’. Young children (under 5 years of age) may seem more active than usual. Your child may feel light headed or faint. They should try not to stand up too quickly. They should lie down for a while if they feel faint. From medicines for children |
| Zafirlukast | Only used for children over 12. Preventer. Taken regularly every morning and evening. | Tablets | The following side-effects should get better after a week. If they don’t, or you are worried, contact your doctor. Your child may get stomach ache or stomach cramps or feel sick (nausea) or be sick (vomit). Giving the medicine with some food or milk may help. Your child may get a headache (they may say their head is painful or pounding). There may, sometimes, be other side-effects that are not listed above. If you notice anything unusual and are concerned, contact your doctor. From medicines for children |
For advice on giving your child tablets please see Medicines for Children – Types of medicines.
Please note:
These are the most commonly used tablets at the time of publication of this website. If you do not see your tablets you can speak to your GP or pharmacist or check the patient information leaflet for your medication.
