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Leukotriene antagonists are a group of relatively new drugs used to control the inflammation causing asthma. They are non-steroid medications which means they do not have any of the side effects associated with steroid use. They work by blocking receptors in the leukotriene inflammation cascade. This cascade is very active in the bronchial tubes. The only other medications available to block this cascade are the steroid compounds.
The two most commonly used leukotriene antagonists are Accolate and Singulair. Both are very effective for most asthma patients and are both very well tolerated. Very few side effects are seen and very few drug interactions occur. Other medications in this class will be released over the coming years.
Because the action of these medications is to reduce inflammation and consequently the severity and frequency of asthma attacks, these drugs are best taken on a daily basis. If you feel you don't need to take this medication anymore, please check with your doctor before stopping the medication.
Depending on the severity of your asthma, these medications can be prescribed as single therapy (along with an as needed beta-agonist) or as a part of a multi-drug regimen. Your doctor will advise you on which plan is best for you.
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