Abstract
Leukotrienes are released by several cell types and can cause bronchoconstriction and inflammation. Leukotrienes play an important role in the pathogenesis of bronchial asthma. The cysteinyl-leukotrienes (C4, D4 and E4) are able to induce all components of the asthmatic reaction. Leukotriene antagonists competitively block leukotrienes receptors on bronchial smooth muscle. The synthesis of adequate receptor antagonists stimulated expectations to develop new and especially effective anti-asthmatic drugs. The results of the first generation compounds were not encouraging. Newer compounds (e.g. montelukast, zafirlukast) are able to protect from bronchoconstriction inducing noxes (especially in analgesic intolerance), to improve chronic asthma (symptoms scores, long-time respiratory rescue medications). Especially remarkable are recent data which prove anti-inflammatory activities. Studies are underway to define the position of these drugs in generally accepted recommendations on asthma therapy, singly or in combination with conventional anti-asthmatics.
