Leukotriene Antagonists

What are other names for these medicines?

Examples of this medicine are montelukast (Singulair), zafirlukast (Accolate) and zileuton (Zyflo). Montelukast has been approved for use in children above 1 year of age, whereas zafirlukast is approved for use in children 5 years of age and older and zileuton is approved for use in children 12 years of age and older.

What do these medicines do?

Leukotriene antagonists are long-term preventive medicines that prevent asthma symptoms by reducing swelling, inflammation and mucus production in the airways. These medicines are not quick-acting bronchodilators and are not helpful in the treatment of asthma attacks. They may also be helpful in controlling allergic nasal symptoms.

How are they taken?

Leukotriene antagonists are taken as pills, chewable tablets or oral granules.

What is the usual dose?

Montelukast is taken once daily in the evening, whereas zafirlukast is taken twice daily and zilueton is taken 4 times a day.

Your prescribed dosage of __________________ is ______ mg to be taken ______ time(s) a day.

What side effects can these drugs cause?

Side effects with the use of montelukast are rare. Liver toxicity has been infrequently noted with the use of zafirlukast and zileuton. Children taking zileuton must have their blood drawn at regular intervals to check for liver damage. If your child is taking zileuton or zafirlukast and has right-sided upper abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, itching or flu-like symptoms that won't go away, call your child's health care provider immediately. These could be symptoms of liver problems.

What special instructions should be followed?

To prevent symptoms of asthma, children should take their leukotriene antagonist exactly as prescribed by their doctor. It is recommended that montelukast be taken in the evening. Children taking zafirlukast should take the medicine 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.