Based on its essential role of monitoring public health and safety, the Ministry of Health has issued a safety alert on Singulair Montelukast, a drug used for treating seasonal allergy for adults and children. According to the statement, MOH would not like to advise users of the drug to abandon it, but required physicians to promptly inform it of any side effects not referred to within the drug's internal guidelines.
As per the MOH alert, the American Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has referred in its website last February to cases of psychological changes among users of the drug. It notified that it is looking into the possibilities of a linkage between the drug and such effects, but confirmed in a further statement issued on March 27, 2008 that the gathered information was not sufficient for making a final decision on the issue and that 9 months may pass for making such decision. FDA advised patients not to quit the drug during this period, but urged physicians to keep a close eye on any behavioral changes.
MOH pledged to announce the results of FDA scrutiny as soon as it is announced by FDA. Meantime, the public have been urged not to accept as true any rumours circulated by media or through mobiles or websites unless reference is made to MOH relative officials or consultation sought through MOH website or free MOH contact number: 8002494444.