[Leukotriene receptor antagonists and bronchial asthma].
Leukotrienes play an important role in the pathogenesis of the allergic bronchial asthma. The cysteinyl-leukotrienes C4, D4 and E4 (formerly known as slow reacting substance of anaphylaxis, SRS-A) are able to induce all components of the asthmatic reaction. The synthesis of adequate receptor antagonists stimulated expectations to develop on this way new and especially effective antiasthmatic drugs. The results of the first generation was disappointing. Newer compounds are able to protect from bronchoconstriction-inducing noxes (especially in analgesic intolerance), to improve chronic asthma (symptoms scores, long-time resp. rescue medication). Especially remarkable are recent data which prove antiinflammatory activities. Studies are underway to define the position of these drugs in generally accepted recommendations on asthma therapy. This group of drugs is the first one with a defined action.
Jäger
L
L
Institut für Klinische Immunologie, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, Jena.
Kroegel
C
C
D000818:Animals; D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists