Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Nucala (mepolizumab) and Singulair (montelukast) are both used to manage asthma, but they work differently and are used in different ways. Nucala is an injection given once a month and is an interleukin antagonist that lowers inflammation by blocking a protein called interleukin-5 (IL-5). It's used for severe asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), and hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES). On the other hand, Singulair is an oral medication taken daily and is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that blocks substances called leukotrienes to reduce inflammation. Singulair is used for asthma, seasonal and year-round allergies, and exercise-induced asthma. While Nucala can be self-administered at home with training, Singulair is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and granules, making it easier for children to take. Nucala may cause injection-site reactions and requires refrigeration, whereas Singulair can cause mental health disturbances and is available as a lower-cost generic. Both medications are not suitable for treating sudden asthma attacks.
Nucala (mepolizumab)
Montelukast (Singular)
Nucala (mepolizumab)
Montelukast (Singular)
Summary of Nucala vs. Singular
Summary for Interleukin antagonist
Prescription only
Nucala (mepolizumab) is an injection that treats certain inflammatory problems. This includes severe asthma in people 6 years and older. It can also treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and sinus congestion with nasal polyps in adults. The medication works as an interleukin antagonist to lower inflammation. It's injected under the skin once a month. You can inject it on your own with the prefilled autoinjector or syringe. A healthcare professional can also give the injection at a medical office. Side effects include headache and injection site reactions.
Summary for Leukotriene receptor antagonist
Prescription only
Montelukast, the generic for Singulair, is used to help control asthma over time and prevent breathing problems during exercise in both adults and children. It's also used to help relieve allergy symptoms. Montelukast (Singular) comes as tablets, chewable tablets, or oral granules and is usually taken by mouth once a day. Common side effects include upper respiratory infection and headache, and it has a boxed warning for serious mood and behavior changes.
Indications of Nucala vs. Singular
Indications for
•Severe asthma - add-on maintenance for people ages 6 years and older