Leukotrienes in Asthma Exacerbation Treatment

Leukotriene modifiers are used to control asthma exacerbations in children, two years of age and older, and adults. Available brands are Accolate, Singulair and Zyflo.

Leukotrienes' Affects

• Leukotrienes are chemicals that occur naturally in our bodies. They cause the tightening of airway muscles, as well as the excess mucus and fluid during asthma episodes.

Leukotriene Modifiers

• Leukotriene modifiers block the action of leukotrienes and prevent asthma symptoms from occurring. They're asthma preventor medicines, not rescue medicines.

Take Leukotriene Modifiers

• For asthma, you can take leukotriene modifier pills, one to four times a day. You can use them in conjunction with other asthma medicines, and, according to WebMD, they've been shown to decrease the need for other asthma medications.

Side Effects

• The most common side effects of leukotriene modifiers are upset stomach and headache.

Contraindications

• Leukotriene modifiers could cause problems with the effectiveness of medications like theopylline or blood thinners, such as Coumadin. Tell your doctor if you're taking these medicines.