LEUKOTRIENE MODIFIERS AND  CONTROLLING ASTHMA

Leukotrienes are chemicals released by the body in certain situations, like during an allergic reaction. They can cause symptoms like coughing, airway inflammation, extra fluid and mucus, chest tightness, and trouble breathing. Leukotriene modifiers, also called leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) or leukotriene synthesis inhibitors, block either the effects or the production of leukotrienes. They are primarily used to preventatively treat breathing problems from allergies, allergic asthma, exercise-induced asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Patients who use these drugs take them orally as a tablet daily for best effectiveness. They should be taken every day whether or not a person is having trouble breathing because they work to prevent asthma symptoms and flair-ups, not to stop one that’s already started.

P.S. Some LTRAs have been known to  cause liver damage, so bloodwork may be required prior to starting a prescription.

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