Singulair vs Lexapro: side-by-side comparison
Singulair (Respiratory Medications) and Lexapro (Anti-Depressants) belong to different therapeutic classes and are rarely interchangeable. This page compares the medications' purposes, mechanisms and the situations where each is used.
| Property | Singulair | Lexapro |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Montelukast | Escitalopram |
| Manufacturer | Organon | Forest/Allergan |
| Class | Respiratory Medications | Anti-Depressants |
| Strengths | 4mg, 5mg, 10mg | 5mg, 10mg, 20mg |
| Forms | tablet, chewable tablet, oral granules | tablet |
What's the same
Singulair and Lexapro are used in very different patients, and the points in common are limited. The main shared element is that both meet regulatory standards for efficacy and safety and benefit from pharmacist oversight.
Key differences
Singulair belongs to Respiratory Medications while Lexapro belongs to Anti-Depressants. Indications, mechanisms and target populations differ. The comparison is most useful when a clinician has mentioned both medications and the patient wants to understand where each fits.
Mechanism and action
Singulair: Montelukast selectively blocks the CysLT1 receptor, which mediates the action of leukotrienes C4, D4 and E4 — proinflammatory mediators released by mast cells and eosinophils. Lexapro: Lexapro acts by selectively inhibiting the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT) at the synapse, increasing serotonin availability for postsynaptic receptors.
When Singulair is preferred
Singulair is approved in adults and children for the maintenance treatment of asthma, including exercise-induced bronchospasm, and for the treatment of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis when conventional therapy is insufficient or not tolerated.
When Lexapro is preferred
Lexapro is approved for major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder in adults and adolescents 12 years and older (depression) and adults (generalised anxiety).
Frequently asked questions
Is Singulair or Lexapro better? ▾
Singulair and Lexapro are not interchangeable — they treat different conditions. Asking which is "better" is meaningful only when a clinician has weighed both for the same specific clinical scenario.
Can I switch from Singulair to Lexapro? ▾
Switching between Singulair and Lexapro is rarely an appropriate decision since they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. The real question is usually whether the diagnosis calls for one medication or the other — which the prescriber resolves.
Do Singulair and Lexapro have the same side effects? ▾
No — they belong to different classes and have distinct side-effect profiles. Each medication has its own prescribing information.
More Singulair comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.