Looking for a budget‑friendly way to get your Singulair (brand name for the leukotriene‑blocking drug used to treat asthma and allergic rhinitis) without breaking the bank? You’re not alone. Thousands of people in the UK search daily for a reliable way to buy the drug online at a lower price. This guide walks you through the whole process - from spotting a legit pharmacy to checking the price, safety, and legal steps - so you can order the generic Singulair with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Only UK‑registered online pharmacies can legally dispense prescription medicines.
- Montelukast is the generic name; it works the same as brand Singulair.
- Look for the MHRA‑approved green logo and a valid pharmacy registration number.
- Typical price drop: £15-£25 per 30‑tablet pack versus the brand price of £50‑£60.
- Always have a valid prescription - from a GP or a tele‑health service - before you click ‘buy’.
What is Generic Singulair (Montelukast)?
Montelukast, the generic version of Singulair, is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that reduces airway inflammation and prevents asthma attacks. It’s also prescribed for allergic rhinitis, especially when antihistamines aren’t enough. The drug was first approved in the US in 1998 and entered the EU market shortly after. Because the active ingredient is the same, the generic delivers identical clinical benefits at a fraction of the cost.
Why Buy Generic Instead of the Brand?
There are three main reasons people switch to the generic:
- Cost savings - generics are typically 40‑60% cheaper than the branded version.
- Insurance or NHS formularies often favour the generic, making reimbursement smoother.
- Availability - when the brand is out of stock, the generic keeps your treatment on track.
Clinical studies published by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) confirm that Montelukast’s efficacy and safety mirror Singulair’s, provided the product meets Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
How to Spot a Legitimate Online Pharmacy in the UK
Buying medication online can feel like a minefield, but you can avoid the bad actors by checking three key credentials:
- MHRA (UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) approved the pharmacy’s registration. Look for the green MHRA logo on the website footer.
- The pharmacy must display a valid registration number issued by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). You can verify it on the GPhC website.
- Secure checkout (HTTPS) and clear privacy policies are non‑negotiable. A reputable site will also offer a pharmacist chat or phone line for queries.
If any of these are missing, walk away - cheap prices aren’t worth the risk of counterfeit medicine.
Legal Requirement: You Need a Prescription
In the UK, Montelukast is a prescription‑only medication (POM). That means you must have a valid prescription from a qualified prescriber. Here are three ways to get one without a face‑to‑face GP visit:
- Tele‑health platforms like Babylon, Livi, or Push Doctor - they connect you with a registered doctor who can issue an electronic prescription after a short consultation.
- Online repeat‑prescription services - if you already have a long‑term prescription, you can request a refill through your NHS portal.
- Local pharmacy - many chain pharmacies (Boots, Lloyds) allow you to drop off a paper prescription and have the medication shipped to your home.
Never trust a site that says you can buy Montelukast without a prescription. That’s a red flag for illegal operation.
Price Comparison: How Much Can You Save?
Below is a snapshot of typical UK prices for a 30‑tablet pack (10mg). Prices fluctuate, but the range gives a realistic idea of potential savings.
| Product | Typical Retail Price | Average Online Price (2025) | Saving vs. Brand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singulair (brand) | £55 | £58 | - |
| Montelukast - Generic A (UK pharmacy) | £- | £22 | ≈60% |
| Montelukast - Generic B (EU import) | £- | £18 | ≈68% |
| Montelukast - Generic C (discount club) | £- | £15 | ≈73% |
Even the most expensive generic still saves you around £30 per pack. Multiply that by a year’s supply, and you’re looking at nearly £400 in savings.
Step‑by‑Step: Ordering Generic Montelukast Online
- Confirm the pharmacy’s MHRA and GPhC registration numbers.
- Obtain a valid electronic or paper prescription for Montelukast (10mg tablets are most common).
- Upload the prescription on the pharmacy’s secure portal. Most sites accept PDF, JPG, or direct NHS link.
- Select the required quantity - usually a 30‑tablet pack for monthly use. Some sites offer 60‑tablet bundles at an added discount.
- Enter your delivery address and choose a shipping option. UK‑based pharmacies generally deliver within 24‑48hours; EU imports may take 3‑5days.
- Complete payment using a protected method (credit card, PayPal, or NHS Direct Debit). Keep the receipt for future reference.
- When the package arrives, verify that the label shows “Montelukast” with the correct dosage and that the batch number matches the pharmacy’s record.
- Store the tablets at room temperature, away from moisture, and start your regimen as prescribed.
Tip: Set a reminder to reorder a week before you run out. Many online pharmacies let you schedule automatic refills, which saves you a trip to the GP.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Even seasoned shoppers can slip up. Here are the most frequent mistakes and quick fixes:
- Ignoring the expiry date - counterfeit packs often have a blank or far‑future date. Always check the printed expiry before use.
- Choosing the cheapest price without verification - ultra‑low offers may source from unregulated overseas labs. Verify the manufacturer’s GMP certification.
- Not reading the patient information leaflet (PIL) - generic brands sometimes include different excipients that can cause mild stomach upset.
- Skipping the pharmacist consultation - reputable sites provide a free chat. Use it to confirm dosage, especially for children.
When to Switch Back to the Brand
Most patients stay on the generic without issue, but there are scenarios where you might consider reverting to Singulair:
- Experiencing new side effects that could be linked to an inactive ingredient.
- Traveling abroad where the brand may be more readily available.
- Having a specific insurance plan that only reimburses the brand.
If any of these apply, talk to your doctor. The switch is simple - just request a new prescription specifying the brand name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to buy Montelukast online in the UK?
Yes, as long as the online pharmacy is registered with the MHRA and holds a valid GPhC licence, and you have a legitimate prescription from a UK‑qualified prescriber.
How much cheaper is generic Montelukast compared to Singulair?
On average you can save 60‑70% per 30‑tablet pack. Prices range from £15 to £22 online, while the branded version costs about £55‑£60.
Do I need a new prescription each time I order?
UK regulations require a valid prescription for each supply. However, many online pharmacies can store an electronic repeat prescription for up to six months, so you don’t need to see a GP every time.
What should I look for on the medication label?
The label must show “Montelukast” as the active ingredient, the dosage (e.g., 10mg), the batch number, expiry date, and the pharmacy’s registration details.
Can I use a foreign online pharmacy?
It’s risky. Medicines imported from outside the UK may not meet MHRA standards, and you could face customs delays or counterfeit products. Stick to UK‑licensed sites whenever possible.
Next Steps: Your Quick Action Plan
Ready to lock in a cheap, safe supply?
- Visit the MHRA’s online register and note down the registration numbers of three UK pharmacies you like.
- Get an electronic prescription through a tele‑health service (most appointments are under £15).
- Compare the three pharmacies using the price table above, pick the best balance of cost and delivery speed.
- Place the order, keep the confirmation email, and set a calendar reminder for the next refill.
Following these steps will save you money, keep your asthma under control, and give you peace of mind that the medicine you receive is genuine.
akash chaudhary
The first thing you need to verify is the pharmacy’s GPhC registration number – if it’s not displayed prominently, walk away.
Second, ensure the MHRA green logo is present and links back to the official register; otherwise you’re likely on a rogue site.
Third, a valid prescription is non‑negotiable – any “no‑prescription required” claim is a red flag for illegal operation.
Fourth, compare the listed batch number with the one on the product label; discrepancies often indicate counterfeit stock.
Finally, use a secure payment method; credit cards give you chargeback rights that PayPal or crypto often don’t.
Skipping any of these checks is essentially gambling with your health.