PTCE Top 200 · #20

Montelukast

Singulair

Montelukast is the generic name for the brand-name drug Singulair. It is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used to treat asthma, allergic rhinitis. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Montelukast ranks #20 and is one of the most frequently tested respiratory/allergy medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.

Generic nameMontelukast
Brand name(s)Singulair
Drug classLeukotriene receptor antagonist
Class groupRespiratory/Allergy
Common useasthma, allergic rhinitis
DEA scheduleUnscheduled
AvailabilityPrescription only (Rx)

What is Montelukast used for?

Leukotriene receptor antagonist for asthma maintenance/prophylaxis; also used for allergic rhinitis and prevention of exercise‑induced bronchoconstriction.

What drug class is Montelukast?

Montelukast is a Leukotriene receptor antagonist in the Respiratory/Allergy group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.

Common side effects of Montelukast

Major interactions

Is Montelukast a controlled substance?

No. Montelukast is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

warning Boxed warning

BOXED WARNING: Serious neuropsychiatric events (e.g., agitation, depression, suicidal thoughts); reserve for allergic rhinitis when other therapies are not adequate and counsel/monitor.

How to remember Montelukast (PTCE mnemonic)

SING-ulair lets you SING through the AIR — montelu-KAST blocks leukotrienes. Asthma/allergies; boxed warning for mood/suicidality.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist for asthma and allergies — a daily maintenance drug, not a rescue inhaler like albuterol.

Montelukast FAQ

What is the brand name for Montelukast?

The brand name for Montelukast is Singulair.

What is Montelukast used for?

Montelukast is used to treat asthma, allergic rhinitis. Leukotriene receptor antagonist for asthma maintenance/prophylaxis; also used for allergic rhinitis and prevention of exercise‑induced bronchoconstriction.

What drug class is Montelukast?

Montelukast is a Leukotriene receptor antagonist (Respiratory/Allergy group).

Is Montelukast a controlled substance?

No. Montelukast is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

Related drugs in the Respiratory/Allergy group

Drill Montelukast the way the PTCE asks it

RxReflex turns the Top 200 drugs into fast flashcard rounds, a guided Learn path, pharmacy math, and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.

Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).