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Zafirlukast improves pulmonary function in patients with moderate persistent asthma receiving regular inhaled
Chung-Jen Huang1, Chun-Hua Wang, Wen-Te Liu
1Department of Thoracic Medicine II, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
Chang Gung Medical Journal
|November 12, 2003
Summary
Zafirlukast significantly improved lung function and asthma symptoms in patients with moderate persistent asthma. This leukotriene receptor antagonist offers a beneficial treatment option for those on inhaled corticosteroids.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Zafirlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist developed for chronic asthma management.
- Asthma patients often require combination therapy for optimal control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of zafirlukast in improving lung function and clinical symptoms in moderate persistent asthma patients.
- To evaluate zafirlukast's impact on patients already receiving inhaled corticosteroids.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 31 moderate persistent asthma patients.
- Patients received either zafirlukast (20 mg twice daily) or placebo for 4 weeks.
- Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) scores, serum IgE, and urine leukotriene E4 were measured.
Main Results:
- Zafirlukast significantly improved morning PEFR (p < 0.05) and reduced SGRQ symptom scores (p < 0.05) compared to placebo.
- No significant changes in PEFR or SGRQ scores were observed in the placebo group.
- Biomarker levels (serum IgE, urine leukotriene E4) were also assessed pre- and post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Zafirlukast demonstrates effectiveness in enhancing lung function and alleviating symptoms in moderate persistent asthma.
- The findings support the use of leukotriene receptor antagonists as an adjunct therapy for asthma patients on inhaled steroids.