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Asthma - Management
What do I need to know when prescribing a leukotriene receptor antagonist?

  • The leukotriene receptor antagonists montelukast and zafirlukast are well tolerated and have few class-related adverse effects [GINA, 2006].
  • Zafirlukast has been associated with liver toxicity. If clinical symptoms or signs suggestive of liver dysfunction occur (e.g. anorexia, nausea, vomiting, right upper quadrant pain, fatigue, lethargy, flu-like symptoms, enlarged liver, pruritus, or jaundice), stop zafirlukast and immediately measure serum transaminases (in particular, serum alanine aminotransferase). Routine monitoring of liver function is not recommended [ABPI Medicines Compendium, 2004].
  • Use in children: montelukast is the only leukotriene receptor antagonist licensed for use in children (aged 6 months and older). A paediatric granule formulation is available, which can be swallowed or mixed with cold or room-temperature soft food and taken immediately [ABPI Medicines Compendium, 2007].
  • Use in pregnancy: do not start a leukotriene receptor antagonist during pregnancy. However, if a woman is already taking a leukotriene receptor antagonist and it is considered essential, treatment can be continued during pregnancy [SIGN and BTS, 2009].
    • In two small prospective studies no increase in the rates of congenital malformation, preterm birth, or low-birthweight was found. There have been several case reports of limb defects in women taking a leukotriene receptor antagonist during pregnancy, but a causal relationship has not been established [Schaefer et al, 2007].

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