New treatments for asthma: the role of leukotriene modifier agents

The three leukotriene (LT) modifiers approved for use in the United States, zileuton, zafirlukast, and montelukast, are the first new class of therapeutic agents to be introduced in 20 years for the treatment of asthma. These agents are referred to as leukotriene modifiers and have clearly demonstrated the ability to ameliorate bronchoconstriction and indices of airway edema and abnormal mucus production as observed in clinical trials. These agents have been shown to improve airflow, reduce the need for an inhaled bronchodilator, and improve nocturnal awakenings and asthma symptom scores appreciably. When combined with inhaled corticosteroid therapy, they may either provide additional improvement in efficacy or permit the reduction of the dose of inhaled corticosteroid necessary for effective therapy. Physicians should be familiar with these agents and consider them for use in their practice, in conjunction with current asthma management guidelines.