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What are Leukotriene Modifiers?

Approximately 34.1 million Americans suffer from asthma, reports the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Doctors prescribe many medications for the treatment of asthma, including one class of oral drugs known as leukotriene modifiers.

  1. Effects

    • Leukotriene modifiers reduce inflammation in your airways and decrease mucous production. This decreases the amount of asthma attacks or periods of not being able to breathe experienced by asthmatics.

    Types

    • There are a number of leukotriene modifier medications available in the United States, including montelukast, zafirlukast and zileuton.

    Time Frame

    • Doctors typically prescribe an oral dose of a leukotriene modifier once or twice per day continuously for long-term control of asthma symptoms, explains the New York City Asthma Initiative.

    Risks

    • Side effects of leukotriene modifiers include headaches, nausea and flu-like symptoms. Risks associated with leukotriene modifiers include suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, depression, insomnia and shaking, warns the Mayo Clinic.

    Restrictions

    • Doctors rarely prescribe leukotriene modifiers for use in pregnant women. Montelukast is safe for use in children two and older as well as adults, while zafirlukast is safe for those seven and up.

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