Parents and consumers across the country are raising alarm bells about the mental health risks associated with Singulair, a widely prescribed asthma and allergy medication. Reports of anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts linked to the drug have spurred concerns and sparked legal action. With the FDA’s warnings and lawsuits mounting, it is time to explore the troubling side of this once-trusted medication.
Asthma Drug Singulair Mental Health Issues
Singulair, or montelukast, has long been prescribed to manage asthma and allergy symptoms. However, its potential to cause severe mental health side effects has cast a shadow over its once-sterling reputation. These side effects include anxiety, depression, irritability, hallucinations, and suicidal thoughts.
One parent shared their distressing experience with their three-year-old son, who was taking a generic version of Montelukast. “He would bang his head against the wall and I found kitchen knives under his pillow—thankfully only the butter knives he could access,” the parent recalled in a public testimonial collected by the National Center for Toxicological Research. This heartbreaking account is part of a series of similar reports, highlighting severe behavioral changes in young children, including acts of self-harm, linked to the use of montelukast.
While some users report symptom relief, others grapple with neuropsychiatric episodes that have disrupted their lives. As more stories emerge, the spotlight intensifies on the risks of this medication.
New Data Shows the Drug Impacts on The Brain
Research by U.S. government scientists has uncovered startling evidence about how Singulair interacts with the brain. The drug binds to receptors involved in mood regulation, cognition, impulse control, and sleep. Although these interactions are not fully understood, they may explain the troubling side effects reported by patients.
FDA slides reviewed by Reuters suggest that the behavior of montelukast resembles that of other drugs with neuropsychiatric effects, such as the antipsychotic risperidone. While these findings raise concerns, the FDA has emphasized that its studies are still ongoing and that conclusions have not yet been finalized.
While the scientific community continues to investigate, the mounting data underscores the importance of informed decision-making when considering this medication.
Singulair Black Box Warning in 2020
In 2020, the FDA took a decisive step by issuing a “boxed warning,” formerly called a “black box warning,” the most serious type of warning for prescription drugs, highlighting Singulair’s potential to cause severe mental health issues. These warnings included risks such as suicidal thoughts, depression, and agitation.
Despite these measures, concerns persist. For many, the question remains: Why were these risks not adequately flagged earlier? Critics argue that Merck, the manufacturer, prioritized profits over patient safety, a claim at the heart of ongoing litigation.
FDA requires Boxed Warning about serious mental health side effects for asthma and allergy drug montelukast (Singulair); advises restricting use for allergic rhinitis: https://t.co/kXDMDgrKZK. pic.twitter.com/ngO8LnoLI9
— FDA Drug Information (@FDA_Drug_Info) March 4, 2020
Pharmaceutical and Product Liability Law
Lawsuits have been filed against Singulair’s manufacturer, Merck, in relation to the drug’s alleged psychiatric side effects. Plaintiffs claim that Merck failed to provide sufficient warnings about the risks associated with Singulair, which could have prevented many unnecessary injuries. These lawsuits primarily focus on claims of negligence regarding the drug’s design and labeling.
At Panter, Panter & Sampedro, we have extensive experience handling product liability claims, including those involving pharmaceuticals. We understand the complexities of product liability cases and work diligently to secure compensation for our clients. In cases like these, we focus on demonstrating how manufacturers failed to adequately warn consumers about the risks of their products. Our legal team collaborates with experts in medicine, safety, and engineering to support the case, ensuring that the defendants are held accountable for the harm caused.
Free Consultation With Miami’s Top Personal Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one has experienced negative mental health side effects from taking Singulair, you may be entitled to compensation. At Panter, Panter & Sampedro, our experienced attorneys have worked in dangerous drug litigation and can help you navigate the complexities of product liability law.
As a trusted Miami law firm with over 30 years of experience, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals who have been harmed by defective drugs. We offer free consultations to evaluate your case and discuss your options moving forward. Our team of product liability lawyers is here to guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Click here for a free consultation with our experienced Product Liability Lawyers.
Sources:
https://www.drugwatch.com/singulair/lawsuits/
https://www.goodrx.com/montelukast/fda-singulair-montelukast-black-box-warning
https://panterlaw.com/product-liability/dangerous-drugs/
