Leukotriene Inhibitors

Mechanism of Action

• Leukotriene inhibitors are receptor antagonists.
• Leukotrienes are inflammatory mediators causing:
  • Bronchoconstriction
  • Mucus production
• Inhibitors block immune responses by blocking leukotrienes, effects are limited to lungs leading to:
  • Decreased inflammation
  • Decreased bronchoconstriction
  • Decreased mucus production

Indications

• Used for control in:
  • Chronic asthma
  • Seasonal allergies
• For prophylaxis (long-term treatment and prevention of asthma)
  • Takes at least one week to see improvement
  • Not short-acting

Precautions

• Liver dysfunction as these drugs are metabolized by the liver

Contraindications

• Liver failure

Side Effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• GI upset
• Nausea

Nursing Actions

• Monitor for:
  • Therapeutic effects
  • Side effects
  • Liver function
• Patient Education
  • Importance of daily dosing and maintaining a continuous schedule, even if symptoms improve
  • Consistent daily intake is crucial for maintaining prophylactic effect

Example of Drug

• Montelukast
  • Prototype to remember
  • Notable for having little adverse reactions