Can Anti-Capsular Contracture Medications Affect Your Mental Health?

Some medications used to prevent capsular contracture after breast implant surgery, like montelukast (Singulair), carry rare but serious warnings about potential mental health side effects.

If you’re considering or currently using these medications, it’s important to understand the risks, symptoms to watch for, and how to stay safe.

1. What Are Anti-Capsular Contracture Medications?

After breast implant surgery, some patients take medications like montelukast (brand name Singulair) to reduce the risk of capsular contracture — a condition where scar tissue tightens around the implant.

• Montelukast is primarily an asthma and allergy medication.
• It’s used off-label by some surgeons to help prevent scar tissue problems after implants.

2. What Does the FDA Say About Mental Health Risks?

In 2020, the FDA issued a Black Box Warning — the strongest safety alert — for montelukast due to reports of serious mental health side effects.

• These can include anxiety, depression, agitation, suicidal thoughts, and mood changes.
• Although these side effects are very rare, they are serious enough to warrant caution.
• The FDA advises patients and doctors to weigh the benefits and risks carefully before using montelukast.

3. What Mental Health Symptoms Should You Watch For?

If you’re taking montelukast or similar medications, be alert for any new or worsening symptoms such as:

• Feeling unusually sad, anxious, or irritable
• Nightmares or vivid dreams
• Restlessness or agitation
• Memory problems or confusion
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If any of these occur, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

4. How Common Are These Side Effects?

• Mental health side effects are uncommon but have been reported in both adults and children.
• Children and adolescents may be more susceptible to mood changes.
• Many symptoms improve or resolve after stopping the medication.

5. What Should You Do If You’re Concerned?

• Talk openly with your plastic surgeon or prescribing doctor about any mental health history before starting the medication.
• Monitor your mood and behavior closely during treatment.
• Don’t hesitate to stop the medication and seek medical advice if you notice troubling symptoms.
• Ask about alternative treatments if montelukast’s risks outweigh benefits for you.

Summary

While anti-capsular contracture medications like montelukast can help prevent complications after breast implant surgery, they carry a rare but serious risk of mental health side effects. Being informed, vigilant, and communicating with your healthcare provider can help you stay safe and get the best outcome.

If you have questions or concerns about these medications or your breast implant recovery, your surgeon is your best resource. Stay informed and don’t hesitate to ask for guidance.