Leukotriene Modifiers
After you come in contact with an allergen your body releases a chemical known as leukotriene. Leukotriene can lead to inflammation and symptoms such as a stuffy nose. Leukotriene modifiers can reduce inflammation and other allergy symptoms by blocking the action of leukotriene.
Leukotriene modifiers are approved for use in the treatment of asthma and allergy symptoms. However, currently the only leukotriene modifier approved for the treatment of allergy symptoms is montelukast.
Drugs in this Class
Montelukast Granules (Montelukast Sodium Granules, Singulair Granules)
Montelukast Tablets (Montelukast Sodium Tablets, Singulair Tablets)
Montelukast Chewable Tablets (Montelukast Sodium Chewable Tablets, Singulair Chewable Tablets)
Summarizing the Evidence
- The role of leukotriene modifiers in management of allergy symptoms is not well defined and there is a need for more evidence supporting their use.
- Studies have shown that leukotriene modifiers reduce allergy symptoms compared to placebo.
- The use of leukotriene modifies in combination with antihistamines may help with a stuffy nose better than either medicine alone.
- Leukotriene inhibitors are as effective as antihistamines in relieving stuffy nose, however they are less effective at treating allergy symptoms overall.
- Leukotriene modifies are not nearly as effective as intranasal steroids for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.
Dosing and Administration
Montelukast has convenient once daily dosing.
Generic Availability
Montelukast is currently only available as the name brand, Singulair.
Drug Interactions
Some interactions between medications can be more severe than others. The best way for you to avoid harmful interactions is to tell your doctor and/or pharmacist what medications you are currently taking, including any over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbals. For specific information on how the drugs interact and the severity of the interaction, please use our Drug Interactions Checker.
Side Effects
To view specific side effect information, please use our Side Effect Checker.
Additional Information
References
- Montelukast (Singulair) for perennial allergic rhinitis (2005). Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics, 47(1220): 87?88.
- Sheikh A, et al. (2006). Seasonal allergic rhinitis in adolescents and adults, search date September 2005. Online version of Clinical Evidence (15).
- Scow D, et al. Leukotriene Inhibitors in the Treatment of Allergy and Asthma, American Family Physician. 2007 January 1;75(1):65-70.
Last Updated: March 2008
Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking any medication.