Antileukotriene

Antileukotrienes are a class of medications that function as leukotriene receptor antagonists or leukotriene synthesis inhibitors. These drugs are primarily used in the management of asthma and allergic rhinitis. They work by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory chemicals the body releases after coming in contact with an allergen or irritant.

Mechanism of Action

Leukotrienes are produced in the body by the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase from arachidonic acid. They play a key role in the inflammatory response, leading to symptoms such as bronchoconstriction, increased mucus production, and edema. Antileukotrienes inhibit the effects of leukotrienes by either blocking their receptors or inhibiting their synthesis.

Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists

Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) block the cysteinyl leukotriene receptors (CysLT1) on target cells. This prevents leukotrienes from binding to these receptors and exerting their effects. Common LTRAs include:

• Montelukast
• Zafirlukast

Leukotriene Synthesis Inhibitors

Leukotriene synthesis inhibitors block the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase, which is crucial for the production of leukotrienes. An example of a leukotriene synthesis inhibitor is:

• Zileuton

Clinical Uses

Antileukotrienes are primarily used in the treatment of:

• Asthma: They help in reducing the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
• Allergic rhinitis: They alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.

Side Effects

Common side effects of antileukotrienes include:

• Headache
• Gastrointestinal disturbances
• Liver enzyme abnormalities (particularly with zileuton)

Related Pages

• Asthma
• Allergic rhinitis
• Leukotriene
• Montelukast
• Zafirlukast
• Zileuton

See Also

• Bronchodilator
• Anti-inflammatory
• Allergy