Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Montelukast (Singulair) and Breo Ellipta (fluticasone/vilanterol) are both used to manage asthma, but they work in different ways and have different uses. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist, which helps reduce inflammation and swelling by blocking leukotrienes. It is taken orally once daily, usually in the evening. Montelukast also helps manage seasonal and year-round allergies and can prevent exercise-induced asthma. Breo Ellipta, on the other hand, is an inhaled combination of a corticosteroid (fluticasone) and a long-acting beta agonist (vilanterol). It helps by reducing lung inflammation and relaxing lung muscles to open airways. Breo Ellipta is also used for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and is taken once daily through inhalation. Montelukast is available in various forms, including chewable tablets and granules, making it suitable for children. Breo Ellipta requires rinsing your mouth after use to prevent fungal infections, while montelukast does not have this requirement. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics.
Montelukast (Singulair)
Breo ellipta (fluticasone furoate / vilanterol)
Montelukast (Singulair)
Breo ellipta (fluticasone furoate / vilanterol)
Summary of Singulair vs. Breo Ellipta
Summary for Leukotriene receptor antagonist
Prescription only
Montelukast (Singulair) is an oral medication used for allergies. It's also used for the long-term treatment of asthma and prevention of exercise-induced asthma. This medication can't be used for a sudden asthma attack, since it takes a longer time to work compared to some inhalers. It's usually an add-on treatment for asthma that might be hard to control.
Summary for Inhaled corticosteroid / LABA
Prescription only
Breo Ellipta (fluticasone furoate / vilanterol) is a maintenance inhaler used every day to help manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It's a combination of two medications: fluticasone, a corticosteroid that reduces swelling in your lungs, and vilanterol, a long-acting beta agonist (LABA) that helps relax your airways. The typical dose is one puff by mouth once a day. Breo Ellipta (fluticasone furoate / vilanterol) isn't for sudden breathing problems or asthma attacks. Side effects include oral thrush, sore throat, and headache.
Indications of Singulair vs. Breo Ellipta
Indications for
•Seasonal allergies
•Year-round allergies
•Asthma
•Exercise-induced asthma
Indications for
•Asthma - in adults and children 5 years and older