Drug Comparisons

After you come in contact with an allergen your body releases a chemical known as leukotriene. Leukotriene can lead to inflammation and symptoms such as a stuffy nose. Leukotriene modifiers can reduce inflammation and other allergy symptoms by blocking the action of leukotriene.

Leukotriene modifiers are approved for use in the treatment of asthma and allergy symptoms. However, currently the only leukotriene modifier approved for the treatment of allergy symptoms is montelukast.

Drugs in this Class
Montelukast Oral Granules (Singulair Granules)
Montelukast Tablets (Singulair Tablets)

Summarizing the Evidence

• The role of leukotriene modifiers in management of allergy symptoms is not well defined and there is a need for more evidence supporting their use.
• Studies have shown that leukotriene modifiers reduce allergy symptoms compared to placebo.
• The use of leukotriene modifies in combination with antihistamines may help with a stuffy nose better than either medicine alone.
• Leukotriene inhibitors are as effective as antihistamines in relieving stuffy nose, however they are less effective at treating allergy symptoms overall.
• Leukotriene modifies are not nearly as effective as intranasal steroids for the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

  Dosing and Administration

  Montelukast has convenient once daily dosing.

  Generic Availability

  Montelukast is currently only available as the name brand, Singulair.

  References

  1. Montelukast (Singulair) for perennial allergic rhinitis (2005). Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics, 47(1220): 87?88.
  2. Sheikh A, et al. (2006). Seasonal allergic rhinitis in adolescents and adults, search date September 2005. Online version of Clinical Evidence (15).
  3. Scow D, et al. Leukotriene Inhibitors in the Treatment of Allergy and Asthma, American Family Physician. 2007 January 1;75(1):65-70

     Drug Interactions
     
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     Side Effects
     
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     Additional Information
     

     Last Updated: March 2008
     This content was created by members of the DrugDigest team of experts and is solely under DrugDigest's editorial control.

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     Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking any medication.