19.4 : 항천식 약물: 류코트리엔 조절제

Leukotriene modifiers, or cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonists, effectively manage chronic asthma by targeting inflammatory mediators produced during arachidonic acid metabolism.

These agents operate through two distinct mechanisms. Drugs like zileuton inhibit 5-lipoxygenase and prevent leukotriene synthesis. In contrast, drugs like zafirlukast and montelukast block LTD₄ binding to its receptor on respiratory mucosa, mitigating bronchoconstriction and inflammation. As a result, airflow improves, reducing asthma symptoms.

These drugs are typically administered orally, enhancing patient compliance, especially in children struggling with inhalation therapies.

Though these drugs are generally safe, potential adverse effects in adults encompass headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and cough. Rarely, psychological effects such as mood changes and nightmares may arise, necessitating prompt medical attention.

In children, symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, sinusitis, and viral infections might manifest.