What you need to know about Singulair and Suicide.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating anecdotal reports that people using Singulair (montelukast) are at greater risk for suicidal thoughts and actions. Singulair is a popular asthma and allergy drug. It has been prescribed in the US since 1998.
The FDA Report states, “Singulair is an effective medicine that is indicated for the treatment of asthma and symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Patients should not stop taking Singulair before talking to their doctor if they have questions about this new information. Until further information is available, healthcare professionals and caregivers should monitor patients taking Singulair for suicidality (suicidal thinking and behavior) and changes in behavior and mood.”
If you are taking Singulair and you have experienced mood swings, behavioral changes and thoughts of suicide since you began taking the drug, you should consult with your doctor immediately. Otherwise, continue taking it until you have discussed it with your doctor. The FDA has not found any link between the drug and suicide. The FDA is investigating a possible link based on reports that have raised concern.
You can read the report (http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/early_comm/montelukast.htm) and link to the FDA’s reporting form at the FDA’s website, www.fda.gov.
For help with suicidal thoughts, The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 24-hour, toll-free suicide prevention service available to anyone in suicidal crisis. If you need help, please dial 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You will be routed to the closest possible crisis center in your area. With over 120 crisis centers across the country, their mission is to provide immediate assistance to anyone seeking mental health services. Call for yourself, or someone you care about. Your call is free and confidential.
For more information on preventing suicide, go to http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.
