Leukotriene Antagonists

Examples:

• Zafirlukast (Accolate) – p.o.
• Montelukast (Singulair) – p.o.

Just like the theophyllines, these relax the smooth muscle surrounding the bronchioles causing bronchodilation. These drugs are also easy to recognize because they end in lukast. As they have gone generic they are easier to acquire and pay for. These are what you’ll use in the ambulatory care setting instead of theophylline’s because you don’t have to worry about toxicity as much. However recently we’re seeing a problem with pediatrics. Preteens are showing behavioral changes (more combative; parents notice their children aren’t the same) when using the leukotriene antagonists.