Singulair Alternative?

[RuthR3856]

I have pollen-triggered asthma only in the spring, and my doctor prescribed Singulair for me. Only problem is, my insurance won't cover it, and it costs $100+. My parents are having a really difficult time financially right now and can't afford it, and because I actually HAVE insurance, I don't qualify for the Merck Prescription Discount Program. I have an albuterol inhaler, but it works for barely half an hour (if that), and I've heard that it's bad for you if you use it more than once a day. I was wondering if there was any other, less expensive alternative medicine than Singulair, because I'm suffering terribly and not being able to breathe is keeping me up all night and interfering with my daily routines.Thanks

[carolynagrl018658]

Zyrtec or advair?

[CrazyTraci]

Have you tried any of the newer generation antihistamines like Claritin or Zyrtec? They are really helpful for some people and since they've gone over-the-counter they arent' nearly as expensive.Another thing you might try is a steroid inhaler like Flovent or Pulmicort. They are expensive also but they may keep you from having attacks in the spring.Also, there is a drug much like Singulair called Zyflo (zileuton). It's probably as expensive as Singulair, but maybe if you check out their website at www.zyflo.com and see if they have any prescription assistance programs?Good luck to you! I hope you feel better!Edit: Inhalers like QVar should only be used twice a day. The active ingredient in QVar, Pulmicort, Flovent, etc. are steroids. Albuterol inhalers may be used as often as needed during an acute asthma attack and every 4-6 hours as needed the rest of the time. Although you may get certain side effects from albuterol, it is ok to use it more than once a day. As long as you're not over-using it you won't have any ill effects.

[DawnR]

Try claritin, or it's off-brand AllerClear. I was prescribed singular for the same reason, but it gave me upper-respitory infections at least 3 times a year. also I use Quvar40 as an inhaler, it's cheaper and can be used more than once a day without the side effects like albuterol. however, it's not a fast acting inhaler so keep your albuterol handy.

[Josh2054]

Singulair's generic name is Montelukast and it can be purchased for much less online