Key takeaways
Montelukast (Singulair) and Flovent (fluticasone) are both used to manage asthma, but they work in different ways and have different uses. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist taken orally, while Flovent is an inhaled corticosteroid. Montelukast is used for long-term asthma treatment, exercise-induced asthma prevention, and year-round or seasonal allergies management. It is taken once daily. In contrast, Flovent is used specifically for the maintenance treatment of asthma and must be inhaled twice daily. Montelukast is available in various forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and granules, making it suitable for children and those who have trouble with inhalers. Flovent, on the other hand, comes in two types of inhalers: HFA and Diskus. Both montelukast and Flovent are not suitable for treating sudden asthma attacks. Flovent requires you to rinse your mouth after each use to prevent fungal infections, a step not needed with montelukast. Additionally, montelukast has a risk of serious mental health side effects, whereas Flovent can cause throat irritation and potential growth delays in children.
