What is singulair good for: How it works, uses, and side effects
How it works, uses, and side effects
Singulair, also known as montelukast, is a prescription medication that helps prevent asthma attacks in people aged 12 months and over. It can also provide relief for seasonal, indoor, and outdoor allergies and allergic rhinitis.
Doctors prescribe Singulair on a long-term basis to treat asthma. It can also help relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, stuffy and runny noses, and nasal itching.
It can also prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm in adults and children aged 6 years or older.
However, Singulair has severe side effects related to mood, which have caused controversy in recent years.
Singulair has the following uses:
- as a treatment for chronic asthma
- to prevent exercise-induced asthma
- to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever
- to relieve the symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis
People taking Singulair to prevent asthma during physical activity should always speak with their doctor before use.
Singulair does not act fast enough to treat an asthma attack immediately, so a person should not use it to treat sudden asthma attacks. Instead, they should use a rescue inhaler. These have a much quicker effect.
The producers of Singulair advise taking the drug once a day.
The dosage depends on the type of allergic rhinitis or asthma a person has and their age.
Chronic asthma
For treating chronic asthma, a person should take Singulair in the evening in the following amounts:
- 15 years or older: 10 milligrams (mg)
- 6–14 years: 5 mg
- 12 months–5 years: 4 mg
Children under 12 months should not take Singulair for exercise-induced asthma, as there are no clinical studies to support its use by this age group.
Children aged 6–23 months should take Singulair in oral granule form, as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved tablets for this age group.
A person should give a child granules within 15 minutes of opening the packet.
Exercise-induced asthma
People who use Singulair to prevent exercise-induced asthma should take the drug 2 hours before exercise. They should keep a rescue inhaler on hand in case of a severe reaction. People who are already taking a daily dose should not take an additional prevention dose.
A person should separate daily doses by at least 24 hours.
Recommended dosages are 10 mg for people aged 15 years or older and 5 mg for people aged 6—14 years.
Children under 6 years old should not take Singulair for exercise-induced asthma, as there are no clinical studies to support its use by this age group.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis
A person with seasonal allergic rhinitis can take Singulair in the morning or evening in the following dosages:
- 15 years or older: 10 mg
- 6–14 years: 5 mg
- 2–5 years: 4 mg
Children under 2 years old should not take Singulair for seasonal allergic rhinitis, as there are no clinical studies to support its use by this age group.
Perennial allergic rhinitis
A person with perennial allergic rhinitis can take Singulair in the morning or evening in the following dosages:
- 15 years or older: 10 mg
- 6–14 years: 5 mg
- 6 months–5 years: 4 mg
Children aged 6–23 months should take Singulair in oral granule form, as tablets are not FDA-approved for this age group. A person should give a child granules within 15 minutes of opening the packet.
Singulair is also available as a cherry-flavored chewable tablet for children aged 24 months to 14 years.
A person who has both asthma and allergic rhinitis should take one dose daily in the evening.
How long does it take to work?
Singulair tablets begin to work within 2 hours of the person taking their dose.
Singulair blocks the action of leukotrienes.
Leukotrienes are fatty signaling molecules that the body produces when there is inflammation.
Researchers believe they may play a key role in triggering asthma and hay fever symptoms.
These molecules contribute to the way asthma develops, causing a range of effects, including:
- inflammation and swelling in the airways
- airflow obstruction
- airway constriction
- increased secretion and buildup of mucus
When a person inhales asthma triggers, such as pollen, the body reacts by releasing leukotrienes.
Leukotrienes cause swelling and inflammation in the lungs and airways. The muscles in the airways tighten, resulting in asthma symptoms, including:
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- coughing
When Singulair blocks leukotrienes, it helps to prevent asthma symptoms.
The most common side effects of Singulair include:
- a cough
- diarrhea
- ear infections
- earache
- sinus infections
- a sore throat
- stomach pain
- upper respiratory infections
People should report the following adverse effects to a doctor:
- a skin rash or hives
- bruising
- pain or muscle weakness
- bleeding
- pinpoint spots under the skin
Research suggests a link between Singulair and behavior and mood changes, including:
- hostility
- aggression
- agitation
- vivid and unpleasant dreams
- confusion
- anxiety
- hallucinations
- sleepwalking
- suicidal thoughts
- insomnia
- tremor
- depression
Children and younger people using the medication are particularly at risk of these side effects.
In March 2020, the FDA strengthened its warning about Singulair’s adverse effects.
The FDA also cautions people not to stop taking Singulair without first discussing this with a healthcare professional.
A person should report any worsening asthma symptoms to a doctor. If Singulair triggers an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical assistance.
The chewable tablets contain a component of aspartame called phenylalanine. Some people are allergic to this substance and should not use Singulair.
Suicide prevention
If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:
- Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
- Listen to the person without judgment.
- Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
- Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
- Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
Click here for more links and local resources.
Was this helpful?
Singulair or montelukast is a drug that gradually reduces the risk of asthma flare-ups by blocking the action of leukotrienes. These are fatty signaling molecules, which the body uses during inflammation and allergic reactions.
Singulair is available as chewable tablets, granules, and regular tablets, and dosage depends on the age of the person with inflammation or asthma.
However, the FDA warns that Singulair can lead to severe side effects, including difficulties with psychological health, especially in young people.
Q:
Can I take Singulair while using other medications?
Anonymous
A:
Singulair is safe to take with most medications.
Discuss all medications you are taking with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure that Singulair is safe to take with your medications.
Dena Westphalen, Pharm.D Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
Was this helpful?
How it works, uses, and side effects
Singulair, also known as montelukast, is a prescription medication that helps prevent asthma attacks in people aged 12 months and over. It can also provide relief for seasonal, indoor, and outdoor allergies and allergic rhinitis.
Doctors prescribe Singulair on a long-term basis to treat asthma. It can also help relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, stuffy and runny noses, and nasal itching.
It can also prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm in adults and children aged 6 years or older.
However, Singulair has severe side effects related to mood, which have caused controversy in recent years.
Singulair has the following uses:
- as a treatment for chronic asthma
- to prevent exercise-induced asthma
- to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever
- to relieve the symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis
People taking Singulair to prevent asthma during physical activity should always speak with their doctor before use.
Singulair does not act fast enough to treat an asthma attack immediately, so a person should not use it to treat sudden asthma attacks. Instead, they should use a rescue inhaler. These have a much quicker effect.
The producers of Singulair advise taking the drug once a day.
The dosage depends on the type of allergic rhinitis or asthma a person has and their age.
Chronic asthma
For treating chronic asthma, a person should take Singulair in the evening in the following amounts:
- 15 years or older: 10 milligrams (mg)
- 6–14 years: 5 mg
- 12 months–5 years: 4 mg
Children under 12 months should not take Singulair for exercise-induced asthma, as there are no clinical studies to support its use by this age group.
Children aged 6–23 months should take Singulair in oral granule form, as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved tablets for this age group. A person should give a child granules within 15 minutes of opening the packet.
Exercise-induced asthma
People who use Singulair to prevent exercise-induced asthma should take the drug 2 hours before exercise. They should keep a rescue inhaler on hand in case of a severe reaction. People who are already taking a daily dose should not take an additional prevention dose.
A person should separate daily doses by at least 24 hours.
Recommended dosages are 10 mg for people aged 15 years or older and 5 mg for people aged 6—14 years.
Children under 6 years old should not take Singulair for exercise-induced asthma, as there are no clinical studies to support its use by this age group.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis
A person with seasonal allergic rhinitis can take Singulair in the morning or evening in the following dosages:
- 15 years or older: 10 mg
- 6–14 years: 5 mg
- 2–5 years: 4 mg
Children under 2 years old should not take Singulair for seasonal allergic rhinitis, as there are no clinical studies to support its use by this age group.
Perennial allergic rhinitis
A person with perennial allergic rhinitis can take Singulair in the morning or evening in the following dosages:
- 15 years or older: 10 mg
- 6–14 years: 5 mg
- 6 months–5 years: 4 mg
Children aged 6–23 months should take Singulair in oral granule form, as tablets are not FDA-approved for this age group. A person should give a child granules within 15 minutes of opening the packet.
Singulair is also available as a cherry-flavored chewable tablet for children aged 24 months to 14 years.
A person who has both asthma and allergic rhinitis should take one dose daily in the evening.
How long does it take to work?
Singulair tablets begin to work within 2 hours of the person taking their dose.
Singulair blocks the action of leukotrienes.
Leukotrienes are fatty signaling molecules that the body produces when there is inflammation.
Researchers believe they may play a key role in triggering asthma and hay fever symptoms.
These molecules contribute to the way asthma develops, causing a range of effects, including:
- inflammation and swelling in the airways
- airflow obstruction
- airway constriction
- increased secretion and buildup of mucus
When a person inhales asthma triggers, such as pollen, the body reacts by releasing leukotrienes.
Leukotrienes cause swelling and inflammation in the lungs and airways. The muscles in the airways tighten, resulting in asthma symptoms, including:
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- coughing
When Singulair blocks leukotrienes, it helps to prevent asthma symptoms.
The most common side effects of Singulair include:
- a cough
- diarrhea
- ear infections
- earache
- sinus infections
- a sore throat
- stomach pain
- upper respiratory infections
People should report the following adverse effects to a doctor:
- a skin rash or hives
- bruising
- pain or muscle weakness
- bleeding
- pinpoint spots under the skin
Research suggests a link between Singulair and behavior and mood changes, including:
- hostility
- aggression
- agitation
- vivid and unpleasant dreams
- confusion
- anxiety
- hallucinations
- sleepwalking
- suicidal thoughts
- insomnia
- tremor
- depression
Children and younger people using the medication are particularly at risk of these side effects.
In March 2020, the FDA strengthened its warning about Singulair’s adverse effects.
The FDA also cautions people not to stop taking Singulair without first discussing this with a healthcare professional.
A person should report any worsening asthma symptoms to a doctor. If Singulair triggers an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical assistance.
The chewable tablets contain a component of aspartame called phenylalanine. Some people are allergic to this substance and should not use Singulair.
Suicide prevention
If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:
- Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
- Listen to the person without judgment.
- Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
- Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
- Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
Click here for more links and local resources.
Was this helpful?
Singulair or montelukast is a drug that gradually reduces the risk of asthma flare-ups by blocking the action of leukotrienes. These are fatty signaling molecules, which the body uses during inflammation and allergic reactions.
Singulair is available as chewable tablets, granules, and regular tablets, and dosage depends on the age of the person with inflammation or asthma.
However, the FDA warns that Singulair can lead to severe side effects, including difficulties with psychological health, especially in young people.
Q:
Can I take Singulair while using other medications?
Anonymous
A:
Singulair is safe to take with most medications.
Discuss all medications you are taking with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure that Singulair is safe to take with your medications.
Dena Westphalen, Pharm.D Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
Was this helpful?
Singular reviews. Advice and recommendations of physicians about the use of Singulair
5 / 5
Singular is used in obstructive airway diseases. Reviews of doctors on the use for children
2 votes
Latin name: Singulair. Producer: Merck Sharp and Dome BV (Netherlands).
Doctors about the drug: use for children, treatment of bronchitis and allergic rhinitis.
Active ingredient : Montelukast
Doctors’ opinions, What people write, User questions
Consultation with a specialist is necessary before use – consult
All doctors are experts in our service.
Documents of doctors are checked.
Singular
The active ingredient of Singular is montelukast, a leukotriene receptor blocker.
Available in 5 mg tablets for children aged 6 to 14 and 10 mg for 14 years and adults. The tablets must be chewed. There are other analogues of this drug, which are available in coated tablets, they must be swallowed whole without chewing.
This drug is indicated for mild bronchial asthma as an additional therapy to reduce the number of attacks. It does not stop the attacks themselves, does not replace inhaled glucocosteroids and bronchodilators.
Also, the drug can be used to alleviate the course of seasonal allergic rhinitis.
Singulair is well tolerated. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, individual intolerance and lactation, as it penetrates well into breast milk and through the placental barrier.
It is well compatible with HCC and β-adrenergic agonists, which are prescribed for the treatment of bronchial asthma.
Doctor’s assessment:
2018-04-14 00:55:21
Singulair
Singulair is an anti-asthma drug that blocks special receptors in the bronchi, helps restore normal rhythm and breathing volume.
Controlled multicenter randomized clinical trials have shown that Singulair relieves day and night symptoms of bronchial asthma, improves the functional characteristics of the respiratory tract, reduces the number of acute episodes, reduces the consumption of bronchodilator drugs, reduces the hypersensitivity of the bronchial tree, incl. during physical work, effective in patients with individual intolerance to Aspirin.
Used in pediatric practice from the age of 6. Chewable tablets should be taken before going to bed, which is very popular with children.
A worthy alternative to i-GCS or increasing doses of i-GCS.
In general, I think Singulair is an excellent drug. Its ease of use and quality of the drug are worth special attention.
In the absence of any benefits, the price significantly limits its purpose. Parents of patients periodically either do not complete treatment or do not start it at all.
Doctor’s rating:
2018-02-18 21:20:15
Reviews of the drug Singulair
Pay close attention to user reviews. Some manufacturing companies may order purchased reviews.
Singular user questions
Stopping drugs before skin tests
Hello! My son is 17 years old, the immunologist prescribed a scheme: 2 weeks of each month, take loratadine 1t. in the morning and singular every day for 1t. in the morning. In 2 weeks we have skin allergy tests. Antihistamines were told to stop. And the singular somehow m…
Should I start taking Singulair?
Hello. My daughter is almost 3 years old. And for the past year she has been suffering from cough and snot. We go to the garden for three weeks at home. They drank various antibiotics, inhalations with beradual, syrups, allergy drops.
Were at the allergist, preliminary diagnosis of obstructive…
Attacks at night
Hello. a 3.5-year-old child was diagnosed with bronchial asthma with allergic rhinitis, basic therapy with pulmicort and singular at night. prisiupy very often at night. what to do?
Drug interactions
Allergist prescribed Singulair, ENT prescribed Polydex, Nasonex, Vibrocil and Loratadine. Everything must be taken at once. Question: is it possible to combine Singular with Loratadine
Compatibility
Hello, is it possible to do a Diaskin test for a child while taking a course of Ismigen (we do not get sick for prevention) and Singular? we are afraid for a false positive test or it is better to postpone. Thank you !
I doubt the test results
Good afternoon, a little over a month ago I made an appointment with an allergist, because I thought that I had an allergic exacerbation (nasal congestion did not go away for 2 weeks, my eyes itched, I often sneezed).
As a child, she was allergic to dust…
what to bring and how to buy them, rules for importing medicines to Russia
Natalya Zhukova
saves on medicines
Author profile
Our acquaintance with Turkish medicines began seven years ago.
Our child fell ill while on vacation on the Turkish coast. I am one of those mothers who take on vacation an impressive first aid kit with drugs for all possible cases of ailment. However, that time the antipyretic brought from Russia was enough for exactly four doses. We found a pharmacy and bought several syrups for the child: Ibufen, Calpol and Dolven.
We liked the effect, and then I realized that many medicines are cheaper in Turkey than in Russia. Since then, every vacation I replenish the first-aid kit with drugs. I will tell you how to find the right medicine in Turkey and how best to buy medicines in a Turkish pharmacy.
After this evening, our acquaintance with Turkish medicines began
Go to the doctor
Our articles are written with love for evidence-based medicine.
We refer to authoritative sources and go to doctors with a good reputation for comments. But remember: the responsibility for your health lies with you and your doctor. We don’t write prescriptions, we give recommendations. Relying on our point of view or not is up to you.
How do I make a list of necessary medicines using Turkish websites
How to make a list of needed medicines. Before my next trip to Turkey, I always make a list of the medicines we need. I am writing indicative prices in Turkish lira, possible analogues in case something is not available in the pharmacy.
I collect information on drugs myself. At first, I formed my list based on the reviews of other tourists, including only the simplest drugs. Some of them have firmly entered our family first aid kit.
Each drug has a main active ingredient, or international non-proprietary name, INN. It is indicated in the instructions for any medicine, usually in the “Composition” section.
For example, the main active ingredient of the drug “Nise” is nimesulide.
Also in the instructions is the ATC code, or anatomical-therapeutic-chemical classification. This is an international drug classification system. For example, for “Nise” ATX – M01AX17.
You can see the necessary information in the paper instructions for the drug or on sites with instructions, I usually use the Russian register of medicines.
Required drug information. Source: Register of Medicines of Russia
To find the right medicine abroad, you will need the name of the active substance, only in Latin, or the ATC code. So, “Nise” in Latin will be referred to as Nimesulide.
That is, you need to write out active substances or ATC codes for all drugs that you want to buy. For search, you can use either one or the other – which will be more convenient.
What are the drugs
Analogues – drugs with different active ingredients, but similar action. It is worth replacing one medicine with an analogue only after consulting a doctor – for example, they may have different side effects and contraindications.
For example, an analogue of an antipyretic drug based on paracetamol will be an antipyretic drug based on ibuprofen.
Synonyms – drugs with the same active ingredient, but different names. So, painkillers based on diclofenac “Diklak” and “Ortofen” are synonyms.
Originals and generics. There are original drugs – these are drugs from the manufacturer with a unique active ingredient. Generics are copied drugs with the same active ingredient as the original. Original drugs and generics will be synonymous drugs in relation to each other.
Theoretically, generics should have the same medicinal effect as the originals, but this is not always the case because different companies may use different excipients or raw materials in production.
It is not always justified to replace the original drug with a generic drug – although this is unlikely to harm health when it comes to the treatment of minor ailments. For example, for colds, insect bites, heartburn or bruises, a generic is also suitable, but a serious chronic disease is best treated with the original drug.
Which sites to look for Turkish medicines. There are many Turkish reference books with a list of medicines, I tried two options:
- Ilacrehberi.com – here is the most complete information, but it is very difficult to use it, even if you have experience searching for medicines and some Turkish words are familiar. On this site, I check the cost of medicines after I have already found out their Turkish name. Here you can see the maximum selling price, above which pharmacies are not allowed to sell the drug.
- Ilactr.com is the site I usually use to find the right drugs, their generics and analogues. The data here is up-to-date, and it is much easier to search for medicines.
How to search for medicines on the Turkish website. In the search bar, I enter the name of the active substance in Latin or the ATC code. The site gives me the medicine I need. It shows its Turkish name, such as NIMES for “Nise”, dosage, sometimes a photo, the need for a prescription, as well as the price – 14.
56 TRY (95.82 R).
How much do popular drugs and their cheap analogues cost?
The drug must be chosen in a suitable dosage. Everything is intuitively clear, for example:
- 100 mg 15 Tablet – dosage 100 mg, 15 tablets per pack;
- Jel %1 30 g 1% gel, 30 grams per tube;
- Şurup 150 ml – syrup, bottle 150 ml.
A site where I look at the Turkish name of the drug I need. Source: ilactr.com Turkish drug name, dosage, API, code, price, type of prescription. Source: ilactr.com At the time of the search, the site gives out all possible dosages of drugs with the introduced active ingredient, you need to choose the right one. Source: ilactr.com
How to tell if a drug is original or generic. In terms of composition and action, generics should be identical to the original, but this is not always the case. In Turkey, as in Russia, they are not tested for compliance with the therapeutic effect of the original drug in clinical trials.
The test concerns only the bioavailability of the drug – the amount of active substance that is absorbed by the body. Generics will cost less than original drugs.
What are generics – FDA
I look for the original drug or generic drug on the Ilactr.com website in the drug description tab.
Ilacrehberi.com also lists this information – it will say Original or Generic. This can be viewed on the tab with general information about the drug.
Here you can see that Nimes 100 mg 15 Tablet is a generic drug. Source: ilactr.com The block on the right side indicates that the drug is generic. Source: ilacrehberi.com
How to check if a prescription is needed. In Turkey, as in Russia, not all medicines can be bought without a prescription. Most antibiotics, any hormonal or psychotropic drugs are sold only by prescription.
Even at a paid appointment, which costs from $30 (2200 R), the doctor is not always entitled to prescribe what the patient asks him to.
For example, at an insurance appointment, the doctor prescribes only what is needed for treatment at the moment.
It happens that prescription and over-the-counter drugs in Russia and Turkey do not match. That is, something in Russia is sold just like that, but in Turkey by prescription, and vice versa. Therefore, it is always worth checking the type of recipe and making sure that there will be no problems.
/za-granicey/
How to buy drugs abroad
In the column “Recipe type” must be indicated “Regular medicine”, or Normal Reçete, then it can be bought without problems.
If Normal Reçete is indicated, the medicine can be bought without a prescription. Source: ilactr.com
How to check the cost of a medicine. Please note that the Ilactr.com website indicates the minimum price of the drug, in reality it can be more expensive. I already look at the possible price range on the Ilacrehberi.com website. So, the minimum price of Nimes is 14.
56 TRY (97 R), maximum – 17.45 TRY (119 R). The average price is 16.93 TRY (112 R). That is, pharmacies should not sell for more than 17.45 TRY (119 R).
To find a drug on Ilacrehberi.com, you need to know the barcode of the drug, barkod in Turkish. I take it from Ilactr.com and enter it into the search bar.
The barcode is indicated in the description of the drug. Source: ilactr.com In the section with general information about medicines, you need to enter a barcode. Source: ilacrehberi.com The site shows the range of possible prices and the dynamics of changes in the cost of medicine for any period. Source: ilacrehberi.com
Russian-Turkish Medicinal Phrasebook
Turkish drug websites are intuitive. At first, I used a regular online translator from Russian to Turkish and vice versa. Then it’s much easier to navigate. Here are some key Turkish words that may come in handy:
Fiyatı – price.
Eşdeğerleri – literally “equivalents”, or analogues.
Original/Generic
Reçete Durumu/Reçete Tipi – the type of recipe required.
We need a Normal Reçete, or “common medicine”, that is, something that can be bought without a prescription.
Firma is a manufacturer.
Etkin Madde is the active ingredient.
ATC Kodu – ATC code.
Çocuk is a child. This word should appear in the instructions if the drug is for children. You can also find the word Pediatrik – the literal translation of “pediatric”, or children’s. For example, Dolven Pediatrik Şurup 150 ml or Ibufen 100 mg/5 ml 100 ml pediatric şurup.
What is the best way to buy medicines in Turkey
Before the trip, I look at the map on the Internet for the location of pharmacies in the region where we plan to rest. In Turkey, there are pharmacies in any city or resort village. They are called Eczane, Apotheke and are designated by the letter E.
Upon arrival, I try to go to all the pharmacies that come my way. I pay special attention to the points that are located away from the center. I try not to buy medicines in large shopping centers and tourist hotspots – they are usually more expensive there.
I always take with me a list of medicines compiled at home.
Photo of one of the pharmacies. Photographs were not allowed inside
I never buy drugs in pharmacies for dollars or euros, because then pharmacists inflate the price by several times. For example, they may announce a price of $30, but in local currency the cost is only 23 TRY (152 R). At the same time, 1 $ is 9.47 TRY (62.5 R).
Turks always state the price in dollars or euros first. I usually say that I only have local money and end up buying in lira. However, there was a case when a pharmacist in a shopping center refused to sell me drugs for lira.
In a pharmacy, you should ask for a receipt, show a printout with prices for medicines or their cost on the monitor. You can do this in Russian or English – as a rule, pharmacists understand. If not, it’s worth trying to show your list of drugs with prices – this often works.
/cheap-drugs/
6 services that will allow you to buy medicines cheaper
As a rule, I check my list and know approximately how much I should pay.
Usually pharmacists do not deceive when they see a meticulous person with a bunch of papers and an insistent desire to find out pricing.
Another way is to ask someone from the hotel staff to buy medicines. However, the candidate must be very reliable. I met only one hotel employee whom I could ask to provide such a service for a nominal fee.
Comparison of the cost of some medicines in Turkey and Russia
| Name and dosage in Turkey | Name and dosage in the Russian Federation | Price in Lira | Purchase price | Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated according to the dosage | Price difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pariet, 200 mg, 28 Tablets | Pariet, 200 mg, 28 Tablets | 42.16 TRY | 366.79 R | 4877.60 P | 4510.81 R |
| Creon, 300 mg, 100 capsules | Creon, 300 mg, 50 Capsules | 132. 66 TRY | 1154.14 P | 2759.20 P | 1605.06 P |
| Aerius 5 mg 20 Tablets | Erius 5 mg 20 Tablets | 17.39 TRY | 151.29 P | 1304.80 P | 1153.51 R |
| Daflon, 500 mg, 60 Tablets | Venarus 50 + 450 mg 60 Tablets | 51.79 TRY | 450.57 P | 1408.10 R | 957.53 R |
| Risonel, 0.05% | Nasonex 0.05% | 24.87 TRY | 216.37 R | 623.60 P | 407.23 R |
| Rennie, 680 mg, 48 Tablets | Rennie, 680 mg, 48 Tablets | 18.33 TRY | 159.47 R | R 514.30 | 354.83 R |
| Tylolhot, 5 mg, 12 sachets | Theraflu 5 mg 10 sachets | 32.99 TRY | 287.01 P | 486.24 R | 199.23 R |
| Kalmosan lotion, 100 ml | Calamine, 100 ml | 11.78 TRY | 102.48 P | $298. 20 | 195.72 R |
| Tantum Verde, 30 ml | Tantum Verde, 25.5 ml | 24.61 TRY | 210.19 P | 403.65 R | 193.46 R |
| Ibufen Pediatrik Şurup, 100 ml | Nurofen for children, 100 ml | 9.63 TRY | 83.78 R | 142.56 P | 58.78 P |
| Nimes, 100 mg, 15 tablets | Nise, 100 mg, 20 Tablets | 14.56 TRY | 126.67 R | 168.15 P | 41.48 P |
| Dolven Pediatrik Şurup, 150 ml | Nurofen for children, 100 ml | 23.01 TRY | 200.19 P | 213.84 R | 13.65 P |
| Calpol Şurup, 120 mg, 150 ml | Panadol Baby, 100 ml | 16.82 TRY | 146.33 R | 140.51 P | -5.82 P |
Pariet, 200 mg, 28 tablets
Name and dosage in Turkey
Pariet, 200 mg, 28 tablets
Price in Lira
42.
16 TRY
Purchase price
R 366.79
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
4877.60 R
Price difference
4510.81 R
Creon, 300 mg, 50 capsules 9 0003
Name and dosage in Turkey
Kreon, 300 mg, 100 capsules
Lira price
132.66 TRY
Purchase price
1154.14 R
Price in the Russian pharmacy, recalculated by dosage price
1605.06 Р
Erius, 5 mg, 20 tablets
Name and dosage in Turkey
Aerius, 5 mg, 20 tablets
Price in Lira
17.39 TRY
Purchase price
151.29 Р
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
1304.80 R
Price difference
1153.51 R
Venarus, 50 + 450 mg, 60 tablets
Name and dosage in Turkey
Daflon, 500 mg, 60 tablets
Price in Lira
51.
79 TRY
Purchase price
450.57 R
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
1408.10 R
900 02 Price difference
957.53 R
Nasonex “, 0.05%
Name and dosage in Turkey
Risonel, 0.05%
Price in Lira
24.87 TRY
Purchase price
216.37 R
dosage
623.60 R
Price difference
407.23 R
Rennie, 680 mg, 48 tablets
Name and dosage in Turkey
Rennie, 680 mg, 48 tablets 003
Price in Lira
18.33 TRY
Purchase price
159.47 Р
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
514.30 R
Price difference
354.83 R
Theraflu, 5 mg, 10 sachets
Name and dosage per Tour
Tylolhot, 5 mg, 12 sachets
Price in Lira
32.99 TRY
Purchase price
287.
01 R
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
486.24 R
Difference in the price
199.23 R
Calamine , 100 ml
Name and dosage in Turkey
Kalmosan losyon, 100 ml
Price in Lira
11.78 TRY
Purchase price
102.48 R
Price in Russian pharmacy, recalculated
298.20 R
Price difference
195.72 Р
Tantum Verde, 25.5 ml
Name and dosage in Turkey
Tantum Verde, 30 ml
Price in Lira 9 0003
24.61 TRY
Purchase price
210 ,19 R
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
403.65 R
Price difference
193.46 R
Nurofen for children, 100 ml
Name and dosage in Turkey
Ibufen Pediatrik Şurup, 100 ml
Lira price
9.63 TRY
Purchase price
83.
78 R
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
142.56 R
Price difference
58.78 R
Name and dosage in Turkey
Dolven Pediatrik Surup, 150 ml
Price in liras
23.01 TRY
Purchase price
200.19 Р
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
213.84 R
Price difference
13.65 R
Nimes, 100 mg, 20 tablets
Name and dosage in Turkey
Nimes, 100 mg, 15 tablets
Price in Lira TRY
Purchase price
R 126.67
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
168.15 R
Price difference
41.48 R
Panadol Baby, 100 ml
Name and dosage in Turkey 9 0003
Calpol Şurup, 120 mg, 150 ml
Lira price
16.82 TRY
Purchase price
146.33 R
Price in the pharmacy of the Russian Federation, recalculated by dosage
140.
51 R
Price difference e
-5.82 R
Possible problems with the purchase drugs in Turkey
Ignorance of the language. In almost every pharmacy where we bought medicines, pharmacists knew Russian. But anyway, it’s better to come to the pharmacy with your list if you are preparing for shopping in advance, or with an empty package or instructions for the medicine, even if in Russian, where the active substance and the ATC code are indicated.
Pharmacists do not always understand customers correctly. For example, once I forgot the list at the hotel and tried to explain at the pharmacy that I needed an ointment for stomatitis. The pharmacist knew Russian, but apparently not so well. But I didn’t succeed in explaining this disease with gestures, I didn’t buy the ointment.
Turkish pharmacists can cheat. Unfortunately, this is possible. In Turkey, a pharmacist takes a big risk if he sells drugs at an inflated price, does not issue receipts, or cheats with change.
For such violations, the license may be revoked. But it is unlikely that they will do this because of the tourist. If they refuse to give me a receipt or don’t give me information on prices, I just don’t buy and go to another pharmacy.
Manual in Turkish. This is necessary if you buy an analogue of the desired drug or the same drug in a slightly different dosage. In such cases, when buying, I always ask the pharmacist to write the dosage regimen directly on the medicine box. Additionally, I find the drug on the Turkish website and translate the instructions using Yandex Translator. Be sure to check with those recommendations for admission that are indicated in the pharmacy. In case of doubt, it is better to clarify the information with your doctor.
Medicines on the list may not be available at the pharmacy. It is quite likely that the required drug will not be available: it has run out or has been discontinued. The pharmacist, if he understands what medicine is needed, can offer a replacement or analogue.
So, “Risonel” appeared on my list instead of “Nasonex” – the active substance of the drugs is the same.
How to export drugs from Turkey and import them to Russia
Export from Turkey. Medicines are classified as personal items. They can be transported in limited quantities – there are no specific figures, but the number of packages should not suggest commercial purposes. If a wholesale lot is suspected, customs will inspect and evaluate each sample included in one lot.
Turkish Customs Code
Cabinet Decree 2009/15481 On the Application of Certain Articles of the Customs Code
Prescription drugs must be declared. Must have a prescription from a Turkish doctor in the local language.
Do not take medicines and pills out of packages, transfer them in bulk into pillboxes or other places. In such cases, it will not be clear what these drugs are and whether they can be transported.
I only place all medicines in my luggage.
There were never any questions. I have carried a maximum of ten packs of Tylolhot.
Movement of medicines — Federal Customs Service
Import to Russia. It is possible to bring medicines into Russia for personal use, and in some cases for relatives, in particular, if the medicines are not produced in Russia and they are recommended for use by WHO. For import in this case, you need to obtain permission from the Ministry of Health.
You only need to declare the transportation of drugs included in the list of potent drugs. They must have a prescription in Russian and an extract from the medical history confirming the need to take such drugs.
10 medicines and substances that are forbidden to be imported into Russia
How much I save buying medicines in Turkey
Not all, but many medicines in Turkey are cheaper than in Russia, so there are significant savings. In addition, we usually buy several packages.
I bought most of the medicines more than once, during this time I chose those that suit me the most.
For example, instead of the Russian Teraflu, you can buy Turkish Theraflu, I tried it, but I like the Tylolhot analogue more.
The last time I saved on medicines from Turkey 7136 R
| Name in Turkey and quantity | Name in the Russian Federation | Price in Lira | Purchase price | How much would I spend in Russia | Price difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tylolhot, 10 packs | Theraflu | 329.90 TRY | 2870.10 P | 4862.40 R | 1992.30 R |
| Daflon, 2 packs | Venarus | 103.58 TRY | 901.14 R | 2816.20 P | 1915.06 R |
| Creon | Creon | 132.66 TRY | 1154.14 P | 2759.20 P | 1605.06 P |
| Aerius | Erius | 17.39 TRY | 151.29 P | 1304.80 P | 1153.51 R |
| Tantum Verde, 2 packs | “Tantum Verde” | 49. 22 TRY | 420.38 P | R 807.30 | 386.92 R |
| Nimes, 2 packs | “Nise” | 29.12 TRY | 253.34 P | $336.30 | 82.96 R |
| Total | 661.87 TRY | 5750.39R | $12,886.20 | 7135.81 P |
Theraflu
Turkish name and quantity
Tylolhot, 10 packs
Lira price
3 29.90 TRY
Purchase price
2870.10 R
How much would I spend in Russia
4862.40 R
Price difference
1992.30 R
Venarus
Turkish name and quantity
Daflon, 2 packs
Price in Lira
103.58 TRY
Purchase price
901.14 R
How much would you spend in Russia
900 02 2816.20 R
Price difference
1915.06 R
Creon
Turkish name and quantity
Kreon
Lira price
132.
66 TRY
Purchase price
1154.14 R
How much would you spend in Russia
2759.20 R
Price difference
1605.06 R
Aerius
Turkish name and quantity
Aerius
Lira price x
17.39 TRY
Purchase price
151.29 R
How much would I spend in Russia
1304.80 R
Price difference
1153.51 R
Tantum Verde
Turkish name and quantity
Tantum Verde, 2 packs
Lira price
49.22 TRY
Purchase price
420.38 R
How much would you spend in Russia
807.30 R
Price difference
386.92 Р
“Nise”
Name in Turkey and quantity
Nimes, 2 packs
Price in Lira
29.12 TRY
Purchase price
253.34 R
How much would you spend in Russia
336.30 R
Price difference
82.