We just found out that Connor is allergic to more things than we previously thought...trees, mold, grass, dogs, and cats. We thought he was just allergic to dogs so now we have some decisions about meds. To add, his allergies cause him breathing problems.
The doc was opposed to Singulair even though he's been taking it for over a year without problems. He said it's under investigation for having various side effects like depression, eating disorders, and suicide attempts. Connor's behavior didn't change one bit when he started...he only got healthier. In fact, last winter, he had nary a cold or any issues related to his asthma.
He also prescribed Qvar in case we wanted to use it instead of Singulair...any experience with this inhaler?

By Dawnk777 on Monday, July 28, 2008 - 07:42 pm:

Awww, poor kid. Does he even dare go outside? I don't have any advice or experience with the meds, though, so no advice.

By Reds9298 on Monday, July 28, 2008 - 11:32 pm:

I've not heard of Qvar. Singulair was an absolute NIGHTMARE for Natalie - the side effects were terrible. I'm so glad Connor hasn't experienced any! It worked wonders for her allergies, I have to say that. The change in her was unbelievable though. Stick with what works, because with allergies you never know. Someday what once worked well won't cut it anymore and you'll be forced to switch to something new, you know?

By Debbie on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 - 09:37 am:

My ds has been on Singulair for several years, he does great on it. It helps his allergies and his asthma. We have experienced no side effects. However, I am going to discuss it with his allergist in a couple of weeks at his next appointment. I am not sure if I want to keep him on it, or try something else. I am a little nervous about all the information that is coming out about it. I have not heard of Qvar either, so no help there. If you want, I can let you know what his allergist says, and if she suggests something else to replace it.

By Trina~moderator on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 - 10:09 am:

I've not heard of Qvar either and both my kids have asthma and allergies. DS (cat allergy) is on Claritin and uses Pulmicort and Albuterol inhalers only when needed. DD (allergic to dogs, tree pollen) takes Allegra and also only uses Pulmicort and Albuterol as needed. Neither has had an asthma flare for a long time, but when they were younger we really had to keep a close eye on their daily peak flow readings and asthma symptoms and follow their Asthma Action Plans.

A BIG help has been having HEPA air cleaners in their bedrooms.

DD took Singulair for a few weeks but it did nothing for her. Our allergist said it doesn't work for some people. I'd also like to mention that she tried Zyrtec with awful results. She became a monster child! Our allergist confirmed it does have that effect on some children.

By Kaye on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 - 11:20 am:

We switched from singulair to Qvar about 2 years ago. It really helped my son. The singular was okay. It is just an inhaler like the albuterol, but a daily one. Actually after 2 years he is off all meds, the last two colds he had didn't develop any asthma symptoms..woo hoo!

By Jjandmom on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 - 03:47 pm:

My friends son is on Claritin for allergies it is the dissolving tablets he takes every night before bed he has bad allergies but she said it works for him. I never had allergies but now I do but I don't take Claritin everynight the way I should and when I don't take it I can feel the difference.

By Imamommyx4 on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 - 09:20 pm:

Qvar is a steroid inhaler like Beconase AQ. Maybe you have heard of that one. Singulair is not a steroid. They work on the allergic reaction in different ways. My dd was on Singulair for several years, maybe 4. I didn't think she had a problem with it. But this spring I heard that about Singulair--depression, etc. A young teen had committed suicide. It dawned on me that dd is weepy alot, stressed alot. She became very tearful this spring. I took her off the Singulair and within about 2 weeks she was no longer getting upset over the silliest things. She was laughing more.

Personally, I'd use the steroid inhaler. For dd we just have to use it during high alert times--first of June, first of October and any time she starts to sniffle which isn't much any more since she started using her vitamins daily.
She also gets a teaspoon of butter a day when she starts to sniffle and her asthma doesn't flare up.

Research butter and asthma. I first heard about it in a continuing education seminar I was at. It works for dd.

By Amecmom on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 - 10:56 pm:

For my 6 year old's seasonal allergies, we've hit upon a great combination of Nasonex daily and a Xopenex inhaler when needed. We do the singlair rarely, but works when needed. Zyrtec made him a nightmare child. Allegra also works well, but I really like the Nasonex.
Hope you find what works. Hugs.
Ame

By Mrsheidi on Wednesday, July 30, 2008 - 12:42 pm:

Thanks, everyone! I might try the Singulair at night from now on and just monitor it. I also worry about the side effects of steroid inhalers since they are not good for his bones. UGH!

I have heard of the butter idea but he won't eat butter. Not on anything...not on toast, not on a biscuit, etc. He has food issues!!! Double ugh!

But, thanks for letting me hear your opinions. I do worry about depression, anxiety, etc. I might hold off until the fall but I'm not sure.