Leukotriene modifiers to prevent aspirin-provoked respiratory reactions in asthmatics.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the use of leukotriene modifiers in preventing aspirin-provoked respiratory reactions in asthmatics.


METHODS
Clinical literature accessed through MEDLINE (1965-February 2001). Key search terms included aspirin, asthma, leukotriene, and treatment.


RESULTS
Aspirin-sensitive asthmatics experience a wide variety of symptoms, ranging from rhinitis to life-threatening bronchospasms, after the ingestion of aspirin or nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The relationship between aspirin sensitivity, asthma, and nasal polyps was first reported in 1922. The exact mechanism of these reactions is not clearly understood. Four studies investigated the use of leukotriene modifiers to prevent aspirin-provoked respiratory reactions. The efficacy of these agents ranged from complete inhibition to no blockade.


CONCLUSIONS
Patients who experience aspirin-sensitive asthma should be cautious when taking aspirin and NSAIDs, despite treatment with leukotriene inhibitors.
Volkman
Julie A
JA
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA, USA.
Pontikes
Pamala J
PJ
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001241:Aspirin / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001249:Asthma / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D001986:Bronchial Spasm / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015289:Leukotrienes / Q000502:physiology*; D012129:Respiratory Function Tests
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D020024:Leukotriene Antagonists; D015289:Leukotrienes; D001241:Aspirin