Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Montelukast (Singulair) and Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol) are both used to manage asthma, but they work in different ways and have different uses. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist taken orally, which helps reduce inflammation and swelling by blocking leukotrienes. It's also used to treat year-round and seasonal allergies and prevent exercise-induced asthma. Advair, on the other hand, is an inhaled combination of a corticosteroid (fluticasone) and a long-acting beta agonist (salmeterol). It helps by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in your lungs. Advair is used for both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but it can't be used for sudden asthma attacks. Advair is available in different forms, like Advair Diskus and Advair HFA. Montelukast is taken once daily, usually in the evening, whereas Advair is typically inhaled twice daily. Montelukast can cause serious mental health side effects, while Advair can lead to fungal infections in the mouth and throat if you don't rinse your mouth after use. Both montelukast and Advair are available as lower-cost generics.
Montelukast (Singular)
Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol)
Montelukast (Singular)
Advair (fluticasone / salmeterol)
Summary of Singular vs. Advair
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.