Montair (Montelukast) vs. Alternatives: Full Comparison Guide

When you pick a daily asthma pill, Montair is a brand of montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist that helps keep airways open. It’s popular because you just swallow a tablet once a day, no inhaler tricks needed. But you might wonder if there’s a cheaper brand, a stronger inhaled spray, or a newer biologic that works better for you. This guide lines up Montair side‑by‑side with the most common alternatives, so you can see where each one shines or falls short.

What Montair (Montelukast) Actually Does

Montair contains the active ingredient Montelukast, which blocks leukotrienes - inflammatory chemicals that cause bronchoconstriction and swelling in the lungs. By binding to leukotriene receptors, it reduces asthma attacks and eases allergic rhinitis. It’s taken orally, usually 10mg for adults and 4mg for kids over 6months. Because it works systemically, you don’t need a spacer or timed inhalations, making it a handy option for children or anyone who struggles with inhaler technique.

Key Alternatives on the Market

• Singulair - another brand of montelukast, often cheaper in bulk.
• Fluticasone propionate - an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) delivered via a metered‑dose inhaler.
• Budesonide - an ICS that comes as a dry‑powder inhaler or nebuliser solution.
• Zafirlukast - a different leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) taken twice daily.
• Zileuton - a 5‑lipoxygenase inhibitor that blocks leukotriene production upstream.
• Omalizumab - an anti‑IgE monoclonal antibody given as a subcutaneous injection every 2‑4 weeks for moderate‑to‑severe allergic asthma.

Side‑Effect Profiles at a Glance

Every drug has trade‑offs. Montair’s most common complaints are mild headache, stomach upset, and occasional mood changes. Singulair shares the same profile because it’s the same molecule. Inhaled steroids like fluticasone and budesonide can cause oral thrush, hoarse voice, and, rarely, bone density loss with long‑term high doses. Zafirlukast may trigger liver enzyme elevations, so doctors often order blood tests. Zileuton is notorious for liver toxicity and requires regular monitoring. Omalizumab’s side effects include injection site reactions and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis - a reason it’s reserved for patients who haven’t responded to other options.

Cost Considerations (Australian Perspective)

Price matters, especially if you’re paying out‑of‑pocket. As of October2025, a 30‑day supply of Montair runs about AU$30-$40, depending on pharmacy. Singulair’s generic version can drop to AU$20‑$25. Inhaled steroids vary: a pack of fluticasone inhalers costs roughly AU$45, while budesonide is around AU$38. Zafirlukast tablets are pricier, about AU$55 for a month’s supply, and Zileuton sits near AU$70. Omalizumab is a big ticket - each injection can be AU$800‑$1,000, though Medicare rebates often offset a portion for eligible patients.

When to Choose Montair Over the Rest

1. Simplicity: If you dislike inhalers or have kids who can’t master the technique, a once‑daily tablet beats an inhaler.
2. Mild‑to‑moderate asthma: Montair works well for step‑2 or step‑3 maintenance in the Australian asthma guidelines.
3. Allergic rhinitis combo: It tackles both asthma and hay‑fever, so you don’t need extra antihistamines.
4. Cost‑effectiveness: The generic version (Singulair) offers a low‑price entry point for most patients.

When Alternatives Might Beat Montair

If you have frequent nighttime attacks, an inhaled corticosteroid often provides stronger anti‑inflammatory control. For patients with liver concerns, avoid Zileuton and Zafirlukast. Those with severe allergic asthma may need biologics like Omalizumab, which can cut exacerbations by up to 50% in clinical trials. Lastly, if you experience mood swings on Montair, switching to an inhaled steroid or a different LTRA can help.

Side‑by‑Side Comparison Table

Quick Decision Checklist

• Do you struggle with inhaler technique? → Choose Montair or Singulair.
• Is cost your biggest barrier? → Generic Singulair or budesonide inhaler.
• Do you have frequent nighttime symptoms? → Switch to an inhaled corticosteroid.
• Any liver issues? → Avoid Zafirlukast and Zileuton.
• Severe allergic asthma despite meds? → Talk to your doctor about Omalizumab.

How to Switch Safely

1. Talk to your GP or respiratory specialist - they’ll assess control level and any comorbidities.
2. Get a clear taper plan if moving from inhaled steroids to Montair; abrupt stops can cause rebound inflammation.
3. Schedule liver function tests if starting Zafirlukast or Zileuton.
4. Monitor symptoms for 2-4 weeks after any change; keep a diary of peak flow, night awakenings, and side‑effects.
5. Update your Medicare or private health plan about any new injectable therapy like Omalizumab to secure rebates.