Antileukotrienes: an emerging generation of drug therapies for asthma.
Based on current evidence, antileukotrienes (ALTs) have a role in maintenance therapy in some mild to moderate asthmatics. However, long-term and comparative studies [i.e. versus inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs)] have yet to be published, and the role of ALTs as first line therapy or in severe asthma is unknown. The benefits of these agents in terms of their impact on symptoms and pulmonary function are consistent; however, their impact on the use of inhaled corticosteroids or beta-agonists is still not known. Adverse events have been reported. Long term monitoring of patients (an additional cost), will be required to determine the safety of these drugs. Oral formulations may contribute to improved compliance and drug delivery (and, thus, efficacy); but only limited (short-term) information is available for children, where this route would be particularly advantageous. Some of the costs and the cost-effectiveness of these agents have yet to be determined.
D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000191:economics; D002170:Canada; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D017281:Cost of Illness; D016527:Drug Costs; D006801:Humans; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000191:economics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists