17.01.4.3 Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists

LTC₄, LTD₄, and LTE₄ are all potent bronchoconstrictors. LTB₄ is chemotractant for neutrophils and eosinophils, which are part of the inflammation associated with asthma. LTs stimulate mucus production, which is also increased in asthma. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that is used in the treatment and prevention of asthma (discussed in eChapter 10). It antagonises the LTC₄, LTD₄, and LTE₄ receptors to reduce bronchoconstriction and inflammation. Montelukast is used to reduce the bronchoconstriction and inflammation associated with asthma. It used orally. The leukotriene antagonists are relatively new drugs, and their place in the treatment of asthma is still being established.