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Management of Preschool Wheezing: Guideline from the Emilia-Romagna Asthma (ERA) Study Group. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11164763. [PMID: 36013002 PMCID: PMC9409690 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11164763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Preschool wheezing should be considered an umbrella term for distinctive diseases with different observable and measurable phenotypes. Despite many efforts, there is a large gap in knowledge regarding management of preschool wheezing. In order to fill this lack of knowledge, the aim of these guidelines was to define management of wheezing disorders in preschool children (aged up to 5 years). A multidisciplinary panel of experts of the Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy, addressed twelve different key questions regarding the management of preschool wheezing. Clinical questions have been formulated by the expert panel using the PICO format (Patients, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes) and systematic reviews have been conducted on PubMed to answer these specific questions, with the aim of formulating recommendations. The GRADE approach has been used for each selected paper, to assess the quality of the evidence and the degree of recommendations. These guidelines represent, in our opinion, the most complete and up-to-date collection of recommendations on preschool wheezing to guide pediatricians in the management of their patients, standardizing approaches. Undoubtedly, more research is needed to find objective biomarkers and understand underlying mechanisms to assess phenotype and endotype and to personalize targeted treatment.
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Kandhare AD, Liu Z, Mukherjee AA, Bodhankar SL. Therapeutic Potential of Morin in Ovalbumin-induced Allergic Asthma Via Modulation of SUMF2/IL-13 and BLT2/NF-kB Signaling Pathway. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2019; 12:122-138. [PMID: 30605067 DOI: 10.2174/1874467212666190102105052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergic asthma is a chronic immune-inflammatory disorder, characterized by airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). Morin is a natural flavonoid reported to exhibit inhibitory action against IgE-mediated allergic response. AIM To determine the efficacy of murine model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced AHR inhibition by morin and decipher the molecular mechanism involved. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats were sensitized and challenged with OVA to induce AHR. Rats received treatment with morin (10, 30 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) for the next 28 days. RESULTS Morin (30 and 100 mg/kg) significantly and dose-dependently attenuated (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001) OVA-induced alterations in pulse oxy and lung function test, increased bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cell counts, elevated total protein and albumin levels in serum, BALF, and lungs, increased serum total and OVA-specific IgE levels and, elevated oxidative stress levels in the lung. RT-PCR analysis revealed that morin treatment (30 and 100 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.001) up-regulated SUMF2 mRNA expression in lungs whereas mRNA expressions of BLT2, NF-κB, and Th2-cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-13) were down-regulated significantly and dose-dependently (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001). Also, histologic and ultrastructural studies showed that morin significantly inhibited (p < 0.001) OVAinduced perivascular and peribranchial inflammatory infiltration and interstitial fibrosis. CONCLUSION Morin exhibited inhibitory effect against OVA-induced allergic asthma by activation of SUMF2 which impeded IL-13 expression and in turn attenuated Th2-cytokines, BLT2, NF-κB, and IgE levels to ameliorate AHR. Thus, our findings suggested that morin could be considered as a potential alternative therapeutic agent for the management of allergic asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit D Kandhare
- Department of Pharmacology, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Erandwane, Paud Road, Pune-411 038, India
| | - Zihao Liu
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Jiangxi 330006, China
| | - Anwesha A Mukherjee
- Department of Pharmacology, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Erandwane, Paud Road, Pune-411 038, India
| | - Subhash L Bodhankar
- Department of Pharmacology, Poona College of Pharmacy, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Erandwane, Paud Road, Pune-411 038, India
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Barbosa JS, Nolasco MM, Ribeiro-Claro P, Almeida Paz FA, Braga SS. Preformulation Studies of the γ-Cyclodextrin and Montelukast Inclusion Compound Prepared by Comilling. J Pharm Sci 2019; 108:1837-1847. [DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2018.11.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Benefits and Risks of Long-Term Asthma Management in Children: Where Are We Heading? Drug Saf 2017; 40:201-210. [PMID: 27928727 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-016-0483-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
International guidelines provide recommendations for a stepwise approach to the management of asthma in children 0-4 years old, 5-11 years old, and adolescents who are treated as adults. Therapy is aimed at two domains of control: current impairment and future risk. The long-term controller medications, inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs), ICSs in combination with long-acting β2 agonists, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and immunomodulators, exhibit different efficacies for these domains. The risk:benefit ratios of the available medications need to be carefully assessed. This review briefly presents the benefits and the potential risks of available asthma medications in children to assist the practitioner in the optimal use of asthma medications. Specifically, the systemic activity of the ICSs and how to minimize their effects on growth and adrenal activity are reviewed as well as other potential adverse effects. Dosing strategies such as intermittent therapy are also assessed.
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Mallol J, Solé D, Aguirre V, Chong H, Rosario N, García-Marcos L. Changes in the prevalence and severity of recurrent wheezing in infants: The results of two surveys administered 7 years apart. J Asthma 2017; 55:1214-1222. [PMID: 29231772 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2017.1403625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify changes in the prevalence and severity of recurrent wheezing (RW) in infants using data obtained from two surveys administered seven years apart. METHODS A cross-sectional, international, population-based study in infants aged 12-15 months was conducted. Data were obtained from two surveys (S1 and S2, in 2005 and 2012, respectively) using the same methodology in three large Latin American cities: Curitiba (Brazil), São Paulo (Brazil), and Santiago (Chile). RESULTS A decrease in the overall prevalence of RW was identified between S1 (23.3%) and S2 (20.4%), p = 0.004, but it was mainly driven by the reduction observed in São Paulo; in Curitiba and Santiago, this change was not significant. The mean prevalence of the following RW severity indicators remained high and stable: severe wheezing episodes (56.9% in S1 and 54.2% in S2, p = 0.32) and emergency department (ED) visits for wheezing (S1 = 68.1%, S2 70.9%, p = 0.21). A significant increase in admissions for wheezing (21.1% to 26.7%, p = 0.004) was observed. In Curitiba and São Paulo, there were significant increases in the prevalence of physician-diagnosed asthma and in the use of inhaled corticosteroids and oral antileukotrienes. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence and severity of RW during the first year of life remained high over time, with remarkably high rates of ED visits, admissions for wheezing and use of asthma medications. This study suggests the need for considering early asthma diagnosis and to establish an appropriate treatment in infants with recurrent and severe asthma-like symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Mallol
- a Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine , Hospital El Pino, University of Santiago de Chile (USACH) , Santiago , Chile
| | - Dirceu Solé
- b Division of Allergy, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics , Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) , São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Viviana Aguirre
- a Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine , Hospital El Pino, University of Santiago de Chile (USACH) , Santiago , Chile
| | - Herberto Chong
- c Department of Pediatric Allergy , Federal University of Paraná , Curitiba , Brazil
| | - Nelson Rosario
- c Department of Pediatric Allergy , Federal University of Paraná , Curitiba , Brazil
| | - Luis García-Marcos
- d University of Murcia and Arrixaca Bio-Health Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB) , Murcia , Spain
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Leung JS, Johnson DW, Sperou AJ, Crotts J, Saude E, Hartling L, Stang A. A systematic review of adverse drug events associated with administration of common asthma medications in children. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0182738. [PMID: 28793336 PMCID: PMC5549998 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0182738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To systematically review the literature and determine frequencies of adverse drug events (ADE) associated with pediatric asthma medications. Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched six bibliographic databases between January 1991 and January 2017. Study eligibility, data extraction and quality assessment were independently completed and verified by two reviewers. We included randomized control trials (RCT), case-control, cohort, or quasi-experimental studies where the primary objective was identifying ADE in children 1 month– 18 years old exposed to commercial asthma medications. The primary outcome was ADE frequency. Findings Our search identified 14,540 citations. 46 studies were included: 24 RCT, 15 cohort, 4 RCT pooled analyses, 1 case-control, 1 open-label trial and 1 quasi-experimental study. Studies examined the following drug classes: inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) (n = 24), short-acting beta-agonists (n = 10), long-acting beta-agonists (LABA) (n = 3), ICS + LABA (n = 3), Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists (n = 3) and others (n = 3). 29 studies occurred in North America, and 29 were industry funded. We report a detailed index of 406 ADE descriptions and frequencies organized by drug class. The majority of data focuses on ICS, with 174 ADE affecting 13 organ systems including adrenal and growth suppression. We observed serious ADE, although they were rare, with frequency ranging between 0.9–6% per drug. There were no confirmed deaths, except for 13 potential deaths in a LABA study including combined adult and pediatric participants. We identified substantial methodological concerns, particularly with identifying ADE and determining severity. No studies utilized available standardized causality, severity or preventability assessments. Conclusion The majority of studies focus on ICS, with adrenal and growth suppression described. Serious ADE are relatively uncommon, with no confirmed pediatric deaths. We identify substantial methodological concerns, highlighting need for standardization with future research examining pediatric asthma medication safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- James S. Leung
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- * E-mail:
| | - David W. Johnson
- Departments of Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, and Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Arissa J. Sperou
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jennifer Crotts
- Departments of Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Research Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Erik Saude
- Departments of Emergency Medicine and Pediatric Emergency Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lisa Hartling
- Alberta Research Center for Health Evidence, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Antonia Stang
- Departments of Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, and Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Patel B, Rashid J, Ahsan F. Aerosolizable modified-release particles of montelukast improve retention and availability of the drug in the lungs. Eur J Pharm Sci 2016; 96:560-570. [PMID: 27989858 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2016.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Montelukast, a cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist available as oral tablets, is used as a second-line therapy in asthma. In this study, we sought to enhance the availability of montelukast in the lungs by encapsulating the drug in poly (lactide-co-glycolic acid)-based (PLGA) respirable large porous particles. We determined the oral and lung specific availability of montelukast by assessing metabolic stability of the drug in the lung and liver homogenates, respectively. We similarly measured the oral and inhalational bioavailability by monitoring the pharmacokinetics and disposition of the drug in live animals. After preparing montelukast-loaded particles with various polymers, in the absence or presence of polyethylenimine (PEI-1), we characterized the particles for physical-chemical properties, entrapment efficiency, in vitro release, uptake by alveolar macrophages, deposition in the lungs, and safety after pulmonary administration. When incubated in lung or liver homogenates, the amount of intact drug in the lung homogenates was greater than that in the liver homogenates. Likewise, the extent of montelukast absorption via the lungs was greater than that via the oral route. Compared with smaller non-porous particles, large porous particles (PEI-1) were taken up by the alveolar macrophages at a lesser extent but deposited in the lungs at a greater extent. The levels of injury markers in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), collected from rat lungs treated with PEI-1, were no different from that in BALF collected from saline treated rats. Overall, the retention time and concentration of montelukast in the lungs can be increased by formulating the drug in large porous particles of PLGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brijeshkumar Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 1300 Coulter Drive, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Jahidur Rashid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 1300 Coulter Drive, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA
| | - Fakhrul Ahsan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 1300 Coulter Drive, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA.
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Barbosa JS, Almeida Paz FA, Braga SS. Montelukast medicines of today and tomorrow: from molecular pharmaceutics to technological formulations. Drug Deliv 2016; 23:3257-3265. [PMID: 27011101 DOI: 10.3109/10717544.2016.1170247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Montelukast sodium is a leukotriene antagonist of growing interest as an alternative therapy for asthma across different age groups due to its bronchoprotective, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. Currently, montelukast is commercialized only in oral solid dosage forms, which are the favorite of adult patients but may pose challenges in administration to children of young age or patients suffering from dysphagia. This review presents a comprehensive revision of scientific reports and patents on emerging strategies for the delivery of montelukast. A common ground to these reports is the pursue of an enhanced montelukast performance, by increasing its bioavailability and physico-chemical stability. A wide variety of strategies can be found, from the formation of supramolecular adducts with cyclodextrins to encapsulation in nanoparticles and liposomes. The new dosage forms for montelukast are designed for non-enteric absorption, some for absorption in the oral cavity and another two being for local action in the nasal mucosa or in the pulmonary epithelium. The review describes the emerging delivery strategies to circumvent the current limitations to the use of montelukast that are expected to ultimately lead to the development of more patient-compliant dosage forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Silva Barbosa
- a Department of Chemistry , QOPNA Research Unit, University of de Aveiro , Aveiro , Portugal and.,b Department of Chemistry , CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of de Aveiro , Aveiro , Portugal
| | - Filipe A Almeida Paz
- b Department of Chemistry , CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of de Aveiro , Aveiro , Portugal
| | - Susana Santos Braga
- a Department of Chemistry , QOPNA Research Unit, University of de Aveiro , Aveiro , Portugal and
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Brodlie M, Gupta A, Rodriguez‐Martinez CE, Castro‐Rodriguez JA, Ducharme FM, McKean MC. Leukotriene receptor antagonists as maintenance and intermittent therapy for episodic viral wheeze in children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2015; 2015:CD008202. [PMID: 26482324 PMCID: PMC6986470 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd008202.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Episodic viral wheeze (EVW) associated with viral respiratory tract infections is a common reason for pre-school children to utilise health care resources and for carers to take time away from employment. About a third of children experience a wheezing episode before the age of five years. EVW therefore represents a significant public health problem. Many pre-school children only wheeze in association with viral infections and in such cases EVW appears to be a separate entity from atopic asthma. Some trials have explored the effectiveness of leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) as regular (maintenance) or episodic (intermittent) treatment in this context. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the evidence for the efficacy and safety of maintenance and intermittent LTRAs in the management of EVW in children aged one to six years. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Airways Group register of trials with pre-specified terms. We performed additional searches by consulting the authors of identified trials, online trial registries of manufacturers' web sites, and reference lists of identified primary papers and reviews. Search results are current to June 2015. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials with a parallel-group or cross-over (for intermittent LTRA only) design. Maintenance was considered as treatment for more than two months and intermittent as less than 14 days. EVW was defined as a history of at least one previous episode of wheezing in association with a viral respiratory tract infection in the absence of symptoms between episodes. As far as possible, relevant specific data were obtained from authors of studies that included children of a wider age group or phenotype. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently assessed studies for inclusion in the review and assessed risk of bias. The primary outcome was number of children with one or more viral-induced episodes requiring one or more treatments with rescue oral corticosteroids. We analysed combined continuous data outcomes with the mean difference and dichotomous data outcomes with an odds ratio (OR). MAIN RESULTS We identified five studies eligible for inclusion in the review (one investigated maintenance treatment, three intermittent therapy and one had both maintenance and intermittent treatment arms) these included 3741 participants. Each study involved oral montelukast and was of good methodological quality, but differed in choice of outcome measures thus limiting our ability to aggregate data across studies. Only primary outcome and adverse event data are reported in this abstract.For maintenance treatment, specific data obtained from a single study, pertaining to children with only an EVW phenotype, showed no statistically significant group reduction in the number of episodes requiring rescue oral corticosteroids associated with daily montelukast versus placebo (OR 1.20, 95% CI 0.70 to 2.06, moderate quality evidence).For intermittent LTRA, pooled data showed no statistically significant reduction in the number of episodes requiring rescue oral steroids in children treated with LTRA versus placebo (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.25, moderate quality evidence). Specific data for children with an EVW phenotype obtained from a single study of intermittent montelukast treatment showed a small, but statistically significant reduction in unscheduled medical attendances due to wheeze (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.98).For maintenance compared to intermittent LTRA treatment no data relating to the primary outcome of the review were identified.There were no other significant group differences identified in other secondary efficacy outcomes for maintenance or intermittent LTRA treatment versus placebo, or maintenance versus intermittent LTRA treatment. We collected descriptive data on adverse events as reported by four of the five included studies, and rates were similar between treatment and placebo groups.Potential heterogeneity in the phenotype of participants within and across trials is a limitation of the evidence. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS In pre-school children with EVW, there is no evidence of benefit associated with maintenance or intermittent LTRA treatment, compared to placebo, for reducing the number of children with one or more viral-induced episodes requiring rescue oral corticosteroids, and little evidence of significant clinical benefit for other secondary outcomes. Therefore until further data are available, LTRA should be used with caution in individual children. When used, we suggest a therapeutic trial is undertaken, during which efficacy should be carefully monitored. It is likely that children with an apparent EVW phenotype are not a homogeneous group and that subgroups may respond to LTRA treatment depending on the exact patho-physiological mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm Brodlie
- Newcastle University and Great North Children's HospitalInstitute of Cellular Medicinec/o Paediatric Respiratory SecretariesRoyal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria RoadNewcastle upon TyneTyne and WearUKNE1 4LP
| | - Atul Gupta
- Royal Brompton Hospital & Imperial College London, MRC & Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of AsthmaPaediatric Respiratory MedicineLondonUK
| | | | - Jose A Castro‐Rodriguez
- Pontificia Universidad Católica de ChileDepartments of Paediatric and Family Medicine, School of MedicineLira 44, 1er pisoSantiagoSantiagoChile
| | - Francine M Ducharme
- University of MontrealDepartment of PaediatricsMontrealCanada
- CHU Sainte‐JustineResearch CentreMontrealCanada
| | - Michael C McKean
- Newcastle upon Tyne NHS TrustPaediatrics3 rd Floor, Doctors Residence, Royal Victoria InfirmaryQueen Victoria RoadNewcastle upon TyneTyne and WearUKNE1 4LP
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Hu Y, Cantarero-Arévalo L. Ethnic differences in adverse drug reactions to asthma medications: a systematic review. J Asthma 2015; 53:69-75. [PMID: 26365429 DOI: 10.3109/02770903.2015.1058395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information on ethnic diversity of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to asthma medications is rare despite evidence suggesting higher risk for African Americans when using β2-adrenergic receptor agonists. The objectives are to investigate how ethnic background was involved in ADR assessment and to examine the relationship between ethnic background and ADRs to asthma medications. METHODS MEDLINE was searched until March 2014. All types of studies reporting ADRs to asthma medications involving more than one ethnic group were included. Extracted information includes study designs, ethnic backgrounds, intervention, and types and severities of ADRs. RESULTS Among the selected 15 randomised clinical trials, six pooled analyses of randomized clinical trials, and five prospective observational studies, only six studies compared ADRs across different ethnic groups. The majority of the comparisons were either statistically insignificant or inconclusive. CONCLUSIONS Ethnicity was largely overlooked. Most studies neglected to report ADRs by ethnicity. Lack of consistency in defining ethnicities complicated further pooled analyses. Despite the higher prevalence of asthma among specific ethnic minority groups, few studies disaggregated information by ethnic background, and reports of ADRs to asthma medications in different ethnic groups were rare. We suggest that the inclusion of ADR analysis by different ethnic backgrounds is desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusun Hu
- a Section for Social and Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Lourdes Cantarero-Arévalo
- a Section for Social and Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
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Hon KLE, Leung TF, Leung AKC. Clinical effectiveness and safety of montelukast in asthma. What are the conclusions from clinical trials and meta-analyses? DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2014; 8:839-50. [PMID: 25061277 PMCID: PMC4079631 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s39100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a common childhood atopic disease associated with chronicity and impaired quality of life. As there is no cure for this disease, treatment relies on avoidance of triggers such as food and aeroallergens, the use of inhaled bronchodilators/corticosteroids and antiallergic or immunomodulating therapies. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) and bronchodilators have been the mainstay. However, in Asia, myths and fallacies regarding Western medicine and corticosteroids are prevalent and lead to nonadherence to treatment. Also, use of traditional and proprietary herbal medicines is popular. In the past decades, a novel class of nonsteroidal immunomodulating montelukasts has become available. This article reviews the evidence for the effectiveness and clinical efficacy of these medications. A number of randomized and controlled trials have been performed over the years. The majority of studies confirm the usefulness of montelukast as monotherapy and add-on therapy to ICS in mild to moderate childhood asthma across all age groups. ICSs are generally superior to montelukasts for asthma management. However, montelukast has a place in the treatment of young children with viral-triggered wheezing diseases, exercise-induced asthma, and in children whose parents are steroid-phobic and find ICS unacceptable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kam Lun Ellis Hon
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Ting Fan Leung
- Department of Paediatrics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Peng WS, Chen X, Yang XY, Liu EM. Systematic review of montelukast's efficacy for preventing post-bronchiolitis wheezing. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2014; 25:143-50. [PMID: 24118637 DOI: 10.1111/pai.12124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Infants often develop reactive airway diseases subsequent to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis. Cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs), a class of lipid mediators that have been implicated in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis and asthma, are released during RSV infection, thereby contributing to the pathogenic changes in airway inflammation. Many pediatric patients, especially those of very young age, continue to have recurrent episodes of lower airway obstruction after bronchiolitis treatment. This study was to systematically review and assessed the efficacy of montelukast for preventing wheezing in patients with post-bronchiolitis. The Cochrane library, PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) periodical databases were screened for studies related to use of montelukast for preventing post-bronchiolitis wheezing published up to 31 December 2012. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs using montelukast alone as an active intervention in infants up to 24 months of age with post-bronchiolitis were selected. Two authors independently extracted data and assessed trial quality using the recommendations published by the Cochrane Collaboration. The meta-analyses were performed using the Cochrane statistical package RevMan5.0.0. Four trials, containing 1430 infants with confirmed diagnosis of acute bronchiolitis, were analyzed. Patients were administered montelukast at post-bronchiolitis. Three trials showed no effects of montelukast on reducing the incidence of recurrent wheezing risk ratios (RR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.55-1.12, p = 0.17), while two trials found that montelukast did reduce the frequency of recurrent wheezing and another two trials demonstrated no effects of montelukast on symptom-free days. The pooled montelukast treatment group showed no significant effect on reducing the usage of corticosteroids, as compared to the placebo group (RR = 1.11, 95% CI: 0.85-1.44, p = 0.45). Two trials showed that montelukast significantly decreased serum eosinophil-derived neurotoxin levels, as compared to the control group. In general, the side effects of rash, vomiting, and insomnia caused by montelukast occurred in 1.5% of patients analyzed. The recent evidences indicate that montelukast may reduce the frequency of post-bronchiolitic wheezing without causing significant side effects but that it has no effects on decreasing incidences of recurrent wheezing, symptom-free days, or the associated usage of corticosteroid in post-bronchiolitis patients. The small number of enrolled participants and the inability to pool all clinical outcomes precludes us from making solid recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan-Sheng Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
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Aagaard L, Hansen EH. Adverse drug reactions associated with asthma medications in children: systematic review of clinical trials. Int J Clin Pharm 2014; 36:243-52. [PMID: 24562976 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-014-9924-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory medications are frequently prescribed for use in children. Several studies have reported information on the safety of asthma medications in clinical studies in adults, but information about safety in children is scarce. OBJECTIVE To review published clinical trials on the occurrence and characteristics of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in children, reported for asthma medications licensed for paediatric use. METHODS We systematically reviewed the literature following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement guidelines. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, IPA, and CINAHLs databases were searched from origin until July 2013 for studies reporting ADRs for beta2-receptor agonists, inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene receptor antagonists and combination products in children from birth to age 17. Information on ADR reporting rates, age and gender, type and seriousness of ADRs, design, setting, observation period, type of assessors, and funding sources was extracted from the articles. RESULTS Literature searches resulted in 162 potential relevant articles. However only 12 of these studies were included in this review as they reported information about ADR rates from use of salmeterol, formoterol, fluticasone, montelukast, zafirlukast and budesonide/formoterol in children. The total population was approximately 3,000 children; the majority was 6- to 11-year-olds and two thirds of these were boys. The observation period varied from 1 to 22 months. The most frequently reported ADRs were exacerbation of asthma, respiratory tract infection, cough, fever and headache. Only few ADRs were rated as being serious, however a number of children dropped out of the clinical trials due to serious ADRs, and, therefore, the real number of serious ADRs is probably higher. CONCLUSIONS Few clinical trials reporting ADRs from use of asthma medications in children were identified in the literature. These studies reported only a few types of ADRs, the majority being non-serious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Aagaard
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, J.B. Winsløws Vej 19, 5000, Odense C, Denmark,
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Dumitru C, Chan SMH, Turcanu V. Role of leukotriene receptor antagonists in the management of pediatric asthma: an update. Paediatr Drugs 2012; 14:317-30. [PMID: 22897162 DOI: 10.2165/11599930-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
At present, the main indications for leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRA) in pediatric asthma are as add-on therapy to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and as initial controller therapy in children with mild asthma, especially those who cannot or will not use ICS. LTRA are also useful for patients who have concomitant rhinitis, and patients with viral-induced wheeze and exercise-induced asthma. It should be noted that the benefits of LTRA therapy have been demonstrated in children as young as 6 months of age and recent clinical trials have further proven the benefits of LTRA in acute asthma exacerbations. However, considering the important pro-inflammatory effects that leukotrienes (LT) have in experimental models of asthma, it may seem surprising that LTRA treatment outcomes are not better and that in some clinical trials only a minority of patients could be classified as full responders. This could be explained by potential additional LT receptors that are not affected by LTRA. Such receptors could represent new therapeutic targets in asthma. Furthermore, progress in differentiating between asthma phenotypes that result from different pathogenic mechanisms, some of which may involve LT to a lesser degree, should lead to an improved, personalized use of LTRA for treating asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catalina Dumitru
- Kings College London, Kings Health Partners, Asthma-UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Department of Asthma, Allergy and Respiratory Science, Guys Hospital, London, UK
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Scaparrotta A, Di Pillo S, Attanasi M, Rapino D, Cingolani A, Consilvio NP, Verini M, Chiarelli F. Montelukast versus inhaled corticosteroids in the management of pediatric mild persistent asthma. Multidiscip Respir Med 2012; 7:13. [PMID: 22958412 PMCID: PMC3436659 DOI: 10.1186/2049-6958-7-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 07/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
International guidelines recommend the use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) as the preferred therapy, with leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) as an alternative, for the management of persistent asthma in children. Montelukast (MLK) is the first LTRA approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the use in young asthmatic children.Therefore, we performed an analysis of studies that compared the efficacy of MLK versus ICSs. We considered eligible for the inclusion randomized, controlled trials on pediatric populations with Jadad score > 3, with at least 4 weeks of treatment with MLK compared with ICS.Although it is important to recognize that ICSs use is currently the recommended first-line treatment for asthmatic children, MLK can have consistent benefits in controlling asthmatic symptoms and may be an alternative in children unable to use ICSs or suffering from poor growth. On the contrary, low pulmonary function and/or high allergic inflammatory markers require the corticosteroid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Scaparrotta
- Allergy and Respiratory Unit, Department of Pediatrics, G. D’Annunzio University of Chieti, Via Dei Vestini 5, Chieti, 66013, Italy
| | - Sabrina Di Pillo
- Allergy and Respiratory Unit, Department of Pediatrics, G. D’Annunzio University of Chieti, Via Dei Vestini 5, Chieti, 66013, Italy
| | - Marina Attanasi
- Allergy and Respiratory Unit, Department of Pediatrics, G. D’Annunzio University of Chieti, Via Dei Vestini 5, Chieti, 66013, Italy
| | - Daniele Rapino
- Allergy and Respiratory Unit, Department of Pediatrics, G. D’Annunzio University of Chieti, Via Dei Vestini 5, Chieti, 66013, Italy
| | - Anna Cingolani
- Allergy and Respiratory Unit, Department of Pediatrics, G. D’Annunzio University of Chieti, Via Dei Vestini 5, Chieti, 66013, Italy
| | - Nicola Pietro Consilvio
- Allergy and Respiratory Unit, Department of Pediatrics, G. D’Annunzio University of Chieti, Via Dei Vestini 5, Chieti, 66013, Italy
| | - Marcello Verini
- Allergy and Respiratory Unit, Department of Pediatrics, G. D’Annunzio University of Chieti, Via Dei Vestini 5, Chieti, 66013, Italy
| | - Francesco Chiarelli
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti, G. D’Annunzio University of Chieti, Via Dei Vestini 5, Chieti, 66013, Italy
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Chauhan BF, Ducharme FM. Anti-leukotriene agents compared to inhaled corticosteroids in the management of recurrent and/or chronic asthma in adults and children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012; 2012:CD002314. [PMID: 22592685 PMCID: PMC4164381 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd002314.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-leukotrienes (5-lipoxygenase inhibitors and leukotriene receptors antagonists) serve as alternative monotherapy to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in the management of recurrent and/or chronic asthma in adults and children. OBJECTIVES To determine the safety and efficacy of anti-leukotrienes compared to inhaled corticosteroids as monotherapy in adults and children with asthma and to provide better insight into the influence of patient and treatment characteristics on the magnitude of effects. SEARCH METHODS We searched MEDLINE (1966 to Dec 2010), EMBASE (1980 to Dec 2010), CINAHL (1982 to Dec 2010), the Cochrane Airways Group trials register, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Dec 2010), abstract books, and reference lists of review articles and trials. We contacted colleagues and the international headquarters of anti-leukotrienes producers. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised trials that compared anti-leukotrienes with inhaled corticosteroids as monotherapy for a minimum period of four weeks in patients with asthma aged two years and older. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed the methodological quality of trials and extracted data. The primary outcome was the number of patients with at least one exacerbation requiring systemic corticosteroids. Secondary outcomes included patients with at least one exacerbation requiring hospital admission, lung function tests, indices of chronic asthma control, adverse effects, withdrawal rates and biological inflammatory markers. MAIN RESULTS Sixty-five trials met the inclusion criteria for this review. Fifty-six trials (19 paediatric trials) contributed data (representing total of 10,005 adults and 3,333 children); 21 trials were of high methodological quality; 44 were published in full-text. All trials pertained to patients with mild or moderate persistent asthma. Trial durations varied from four to 52 weeks. The median dose of inhaled corticosteroids was quite homogeneous at 200 µg/day of microfine hydrofluoroalkane-propelled beclomethasone or equivalent (HFA-BDP eq). Patients treated with anti-leukotrienes were more likely to suffer an exacerbation requiring systemic corticosteroids (N = 6077 participants; risk ratio (RR) 1.51, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17, 1.96). For every 28 (95% CI 15 to 82) patients treated with anti-leukotrienes instead of inhaled corticosteroids, there was one additional patient with an exacerbation requiring rescue systemic corticosteroids. The magnitude of effect was significantly greater in patients with moderate compared with those with mild airway obstruction (RR 2.03, 95% CI 1.41, 2.91 versus RR 1.25, 95% CI 0.97, 1.61), but was not significantly influenced by age group (children representing 23% of the weight versus adults), anti-leukotriene used, duration of intervention, methodological quality, and funding source. Significant group differences favouring inhaled corticosteroids were noted in most secondary outcomes including patients with at least one exacerbation requiring hospital admission (N = 2715 participants; RR 3.33; 95% CI 1.02 to 10.94), the change from baseline FEV(1) (N = 7128 participants; mean group difference (MD) 110 mL, 95% CI 140 to 80) as well as other lung function parameters, asthma symptoms, nocturnal awakenings, rescue medication use, symptom-free days, the quality of life, parents' and physicians' satisfaction. Anti-leukotriene therapy was associated with increased risk of withdrawals due to poor asthma control (N = 7669 participants; RR 2.56; 95% CI 2.01 to 3.27). For every thirty one (95% CI 22 to 47) patients treated with anti-leukotrienes instead of inhaled corticosteroids, there was one additional withdrawal due to poor control. Risk of side effects was not significantly different between both groups. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS As monotherapy, inhaled corticosteroids display superior efficacy to anti-leukotrienes in adults and children with persistent asthma; the superiority is particularly marked in patients with moderate airway obstruction. On the basis of efficacy, the results support the current guidelines' recommendation that inhaled corticosteroids remain the preferred monotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhupendrasinh F Chauhan
- Research Centre, CHU Sainte‐JustineClinical Research Unit on Childhood Asthma3175, Cote Sainte‐CatherineMontrealQCCanada
| | - Francine M Ducharme
- University of MontrealDepartment of PaediatricsMontrealQCCanada
- CHU Sainte‐JustineResearch CentreMontrealCanada
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17
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Kozer E, Lotem Z, Elgarushe M, Torgovicky R, Cohen R, Cohen HA, Berkovitch M. RCT of montelukast as prophylaxis for upper respiratory tract infections in children. Pediatrics 2012; 129:e285-90. [PMID: 22218843 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2011-0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infections with viruses causing upper respiratory tract infection (URI) are associated with increased leukotriene levels in the upper airways. Montelukast, a selective leukotriene-receptor antagonist, is an effective treatment of asthma and allergic rhinitis. OBJECTIVE To determine whether prophylactic treatment with montelukast reduces the incidence and severity of URI in children. METHODS A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed in 3 primary care pediatric ambulatory clinics in Israel. Healthy children aged 1 to 5 years were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive 12-week treatment with 4 mg oral montelukast or look-alike placebo. Patients were excluded if they had a previous history of reactive airway disease. A study coordinator contacted the parents by phone once a week to obtain information regarding the occurrence of acute respiratory episodes. The parents received a diary card to record any acute symptoms of URI. The primary outcome measure was the number of URI episodes. RESULTS Three hundred children were recruited and randomly assigned into montelukast (n = 153) or placebo (n = 147) groups. One hundred thirty-one (85.6%) of the children treated with montelukast and 129 (87.7%) of the children treated with placebo completed 12 weeks of treatment. The number of weeks in which URI was reported was 30.4% in children treated with montelukast and 30.7% in children treated with placebo. There was no significant difference in any of the secondary variables between the groups. CONCLUSIONS In preschool-aged children, 12-week treatment with montelukast, compared with placebo, did not reduce the incidence of URI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eran Kozer
- Pediatric Emergency Unit, Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin 70300, Israel.
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18
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Amlani S, Nadarajah T, McIvor RA. Montelukast for the treatment of asthma in the adult population. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2011; 12:2119-28. [PMID: 21777174 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2011.600689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Asthma is a complex process that results from airway inflammation and manifests as bronchoconstriction. Infiltration of the airway mucosa and lumen by activated inflammatory cells, along with release of mediators, can occur extensively. Chemical mediators known as leukotrienes are believed to play a major role in this process. At present, inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the pharmacologic cornerstone of asthma management. However, asthma control may remain suboptimal when relying on ICS because of problems with compliance, poor inhaler technique and concerns about the side effects of steroids; additional agents are often required to control symptoms. Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRA), namely montelukast, provide a safe and effective additional anti-inflammatory treatment option. There is particular benefit for patients with asthma and concomitant allergic rhinitis. AREAS COVERED Montelukast has been well studied through rigorous clinical trials. A thorough review of the literature has been undertaken to assess the evidence supporting the use of LTRAs. This review focuses on the role of montelukast not only as monotherapy but also as add-on therapy to ICS in the adult asthma population, as well as adult asthmatics with concomitant allergic rhinitis. In addition, there is often some discrepancy between the evidence generated in the idealized asthma patients recruited into randomized clinical trials and results obtained in the real-life setting. This review assesses recent clinical trials evaluating the real-life evaluation of montelukast, achieved mainly through open-label observational studies. EXPERT OPINION Oral LTRA bring remarkable ease of anti-inflammatory treatment administration and symptom improvement with minimal side effects to the management of adult asthma. Basic asthma mechanisms and much-valued scientific groundwork has been identified by exploring target asthma treatment with anti-leukotriene therapy. This will have a significant impact in the future development of targeted asthma therapies as well as the current management of asthma and other inflammatory medical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salima Amlani
- McMaster University, Internal Medicine Residency Program, 1200 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Doherty GM. Is montelukast effective and well tolerated in the management of asthma in young children?: Part A: Evidence-based answer and summary. Paediatr Child Health 2011; 12:307-8. [PMID: 19030375 DOI: 10.1093/pch/12.4.307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2007] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gary M Doherty
- Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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20
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Scadding G. Non-surgical treatment of adenoidal hypertrophy: the role of treating IgE-mediated inflammation. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010; 21:1095-106. [PMID: 20609137 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3038.2010.01012.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Adenoidal hypertrophy (AH) and adenotonsillar hypertrophy are common disorders in the pediatric population and can cause symptoms such as mouth breathing, nasal congestion, hyponasal speech, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), as well as chronic sinusitis and recurrent otitis media. More serious long-term sequelae, typically secondary to OSA, include neurocognitive abnormalities (e.g. behavioral and learning difficulties, poor attention span, hyperactivity, below average intelligence quotient); cardiovascular morbidity (e.g. decreased right ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular hypertrophy, elevated diastolic blood pressure); and growth failure. Adenoidectomy (with tonsillectomy in cases of adenotonsillar hypertrophy) is the typical management strategy for patients with AH. Potential complications have prompted the investigation of non-surgical alternatives. Evidence of a pathophysiologic link between AH and allergy suggests a possible role for intranasal corticosteroids (INS) in the management of patients with AH. This article reviews the epidemiology and pathophysiology of AH with a particular focus on evidence of its association with allergy and allergic rhinitis. Current treatment options are briefly considered with discussion on the rationale and evidence for the use of INS.
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Abstract
Although wheezing illness is at its most prevalent in infancy and early childhood, its self-limiting nature in the majority poses considerable challenges in offering a long-term prognosis and in initiating long-term prophylaxis. Many of the established treatments in adults have not been adequately assessed in children. Evidence is also emerging for a number of different wheezing syndromes, several of which do not to respond well to currently available medicines. Much research interest is being directed to underlying changes within the airway that appear to be independent of allergic mechanisms and that may lead to novel therapeutic approaches. The aim of this review is to restate and update current best-practice based on evidence, to encourage effective and safe use of asthma medication in children and to point to areas of ongoing research that are likely to influence management decisions in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Helms
- Child Health, University of Aberdeen, Royal Aberdeen Children's Hospital, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZG, Scotland, UK.
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22
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Weiss KB, Gern JE, Johnston NW, Sears MR, Jones CA, Jia G, Watkins MW, Smugar SS, Edelman JM, Grant EN. The Back to School asthma study: the effect of montelukast on asthma burden when initiated prophylactically at the start of the school year. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2010; 105:174-81. [PMID: 20674830 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2010.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2009] [Revised: 04/19/2010] [Accepted: 04/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric asthma hospitalizations peak in early autumn. OBJECTIVE To determine the effectiveness of montelukast therapy in reducing the asthma burden in children when initiated prophylactically on school return. METHODS This was a randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of children with asthma aged 6 to 14 years. No minimum asthma symptoms were required, and patients could continue inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) use. Montelukast, 5 mg, chewable tablet (n = 580) or matching placebo (n = 582) was taken the night before the first day of school and nightly thereafter for 8 weeks. The primary end point was the percentage of days with worsening asthma, defined by one of the following: (1) increased beta-agonist use, (2) increased daytime symptoms, (3) awake "all night," (4) oral corticosteroid rescue or increased ICS use for worsening asthma, or (5) unanticipated health care utilization. RESULTS The reduction in the percentage of days with worsening asthma with montelukast use versus placebo use was not significant (24.3% vs 27.2%, P = .07). Prespecified subgroup analyses demonstrated nonsignificant trends favoring montelukast therapy in boys and older children but no effect by baseline ICS use or history of cold symptoms. Post hoc analysis showed a nonsignificant trend favoring montelukast therapy in reducing worsening asthma days for children commencing school after August 15 compared with earlier commencement. CONCLUSIONS Montelukast use was not significantly more effective than was placebo use in reducing the percentage of days with worsening asthma when initiated at the start of the school year. The effect of montelukast treatment on the fall peak in asthma burden may depend on sex, age, and the date of school return.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin B Weiss
- Institute for Healthcare Studies and Department of Medicine, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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23
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Bisgaard H, Skoner D, Boza ML, Tozzi CA, Newcomb K, Reiss TF, Knorr B, Noonan G. Safety and tolerability of montelukast in placebo-controlled pediatric studies and their open-label extensions. Pediatr Pulmonol 2009; 44:568-79. [PMID: 19449366 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.21018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Montelukast is a potent leukotriene-receptor antagonist administered once daily that provides clinical benefit in the treatment of asthma and allergic rhinitis in children and adults. Because of its wide use as a pediatric controller, there is a need for a further review of the safety and tolerability of montelukast in children. OBJECTIVE To summarize safety and tolerability data for montelukast from previously reported as well as from unpublished placebo-controlled, double-blind, pediatric studies and their active-controlled open-label extension/extended studies. METHODS These studies evaluated 2,751 pediatric patients 6 months to 14 years of age with persistent asthma, intermittent asthma associated with upper respiratory infection, or allergic rhinitis. These patients were enrolled in seven randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind registration and post-registration studies and three active-controlled open-label extension/extended studies conducted by Merck Research Laboratories between 1995 and 2004. RESULTS Montelukast was well tolerated in all studies. Clinical and laboratory adverse experiences for patients treated with montelukast were generally mild and transient. The most frequent clinical adverse events for all treatments (placebo, montelukast, active control/usual care) in virtually all studies were upper respiratory infection, worsening asthma, pharyngitis, and fever. CONCLUSION The clinical and laboratory safety profile for montelukast was similar to that observed for placebo or active control/usual care therapies. The safety profile of montelukast did not change with long-term use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Bisgaard
- Danish Pediatric Asthma Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Jartti T. Inhaled corticosteroids or montelukast as the preferred primary long-term treatment for pediatric asthma? Eur J Pediatr 2008; 167:731-6. [PMID: 18214538 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-007-0644-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2007] [Revised: 11/19/2007] [Accepted: 11/20/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
According to current guidelines, inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are the preferred primary long-term treatment for asthmatic children of all age groups, but leukotriene receptor antagonists can be considered to be an alternative treatment for mild persistent asthma. In this article, all randomized double-blind efficacy studies comparing the long-term (>4-week) treatment using a leukotriene receptor antagonist with an inhaled corticosteroid in asthmatic children were critically reviewed. In school-aged children, five reports with an adequate study design were available. All of these studies compared montelukast with inhaled fluticasone. The meta-analysis of the two main outcome measures, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (weighted mean difference, 4.6% predicted, 95% confidence interval: 3.5-5.5) and asthma control days (respectively, 5.6%, 4.3-6.9) demonstrated the superiority of fluticasone over montelukast. Many other clinical and pulmonary outcomes also consistently showed that low-dose inhaled fluticasone was more effective than montelukast in the long-term management of mild to moderate persistent asthma. A more favorable response to fluticasone over montelukast was associated with more severe disease or markers of allergic inflammation. About a quarter of patients benefited more from montelukast than fluticasone. In children under school age, no comparative studies were available. However, long-term montelukast treatment was found to be effective in placebo-controlled studies in asthmatic children aged >2 years. These findings support the present international recommendations for ICS as the preferred first-line controller therapy for mild to moderate persistent childhood asthma. If montelukast is selected as a monotherapy and asthma is not adequately controlled within 4-6 weeks, the treatment should be discontinued and the preferred medication initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuomas Jartti
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-6, 20520 Turku, Finland.
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26
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Bisgaard H, Flores-Nunez A, Goh A, Azimi P, Halkas A, Malice MP, Marchal JL, Dass SB, Reiss TF, Knorr BA. Study of montelukast for the treatment of respiratory symptoms of post-respiratory syncytial virus bronchiolitis in children. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2008; 178:854-60. [PMID: 18583576 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.200706-910oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE A pilot study (Bisgaard H; Study Group on Montelukast and Respiratory Syncytial Virus. A randomized trial of montelukast in respiratory syncytial virus postbronchiolitis. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2003;167:379-383) reported the efficacy of montelukast in post-respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitic respiratory symptoms. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy and safety of montelukast, 4 and 8 mg, in treating recurrent respiratory symptoms of post-RSV bronchiolitis in children in a large, multicenter study. METHODS This was a double-blind study of 3- to 24-month-old children who had been hospitalized for a first or second episode of physician-diagnosed RSV bronchiolitis and who tested positive for RSV. Patients (n = 979) were randomized to placebo or to montelukast at 4 or 8 mg/day for 4 weeks (period I) and 20 weeks (period II). The primary end point was percentage symptom-free days (%SFD; day with no daytime cough, wheeze, and shortness of breath, and no nighttime cough). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS No significant differences were seen between montelukast and placebo in %SFD over period I: mean +/- SD for placebo and for montelukast at 4 and 8 mg were 37.0 +/- 30.7, 38.6 +/- 30.4, and 38.5 +/- 29.9, respectively. Least-squares mean differences (95% confidence interval) between montelukast (4 mg) and placebo and between montelukast (8 mg) and placebo were 1.9% (-2.9, 6.7) and 1.6% (-3.2, 6.5), respectively. Secondary end points were similar across treatments. Both doses were generally well tolerated. During the first two treatment weeks, average %SFD was approximately 29%. In post hoc analyses of patients (n = 523) with persistent symptoms (%SFD < or = 30% over Weeks 1-2), differences in %SFD were seen between montelukast and placebo over Weeks 3-24: difference were 5.7 (0.0, 11.3) for montelukast (4 mg) minus placebo and 5.9 (0.1, 11.7) for montelukast (8 mg) minus placebo. CONCLUSIONS In this study, montelukast did not improve respiratory symptoms of post-RSV bronchiolitis in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Bisgaard
- Danish Pediatric Asthma Center, Department of Pediatrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Gentofte, DK-2900 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Kearns GL, Lu S, Maganti L, Li XS, Migoya E, Ahmed T, Knorr B, Reiss TF. Pharmacokinetics and safety of montelukast oral granules in children 1 to 3 months of age with bronchiolitis. J Clin Pharmacol 2008; 48:502-11. [PMID: 18296556 DOI: 10.1177/0091270008314251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The single-dose pharmacokinetics of montelukast 4-mg oral granules and tolerability of daily administration of 2 different doses of montelukast (4 mg and 8 mg given once daily for 7 days) versus placebo were evaluated in 12 infants 1 to 3 months of age with bronchiolitis or a history of bronchiolitis and asthma-like symptoms. The population area under the concentration-time curve estimate after a single 4-mg dose of montelukast was 13 195.7 +/- 2309.8 (standard error) ng.hr/mL, 3.6 times higher than historical values in infants 3 to 24 months of age. Six patients had 10 total clinical adverse experiences; none was considered serious or drug related. Three patients had transient drug-related increases in aspartate aminotransferase (montelukast 8 mg [n = 2]; placebo [n = 1]). Despite increased systemic exposure after administration of a single dose of montelukast 4-mg oral granules in infants 1 to 3 months of age compared with that in pediatric patients 3 to 24 months of age, administration of montelukast at 4 and 8 mg once daily for 7 days in 1- to 3-month-old infants was generally well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory L Kearns
- Division of Pediatric Clinical Pharmacology and Medical Toxicology, Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA.
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28
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Bacharier LB, Boner A, Carlsen KH, Eigenmann PA, Frischer T, Götz M, Helms PJ, Hunt J, Liu A, Papadopoulos N, Platts-Mills T, Pohunek P, Simons FER, Valovirta E, Wahn U, Wildhaber J. Diagnosis and treatment of asthma in childhood: a PRACTALL consensus report. Allergy 2008; 63:5-34. [PMID: 18053013 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2007.01586.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 367] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is the leading chronic disease among children in most industrialized countries. However, the evidence base on specific aspects of pediatric asthma, including therapeutic strategies, is limited and no recent international guidelines have focused exclusively on pediatric asthma. As a result, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology nominated expert teams to find a consensus to serve as a guideline for clinical practice in Europe as well as in North America. This consensus report recommends strategies that include pharmacological treatment, allergen and trigger avoidance and asthma education. The report is part of the PRACTALL initiative, which is endorsed by both academies.
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Affiliation(s)
- L B Bacharier
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St Louis, MO, USA
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29
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Abstract
The leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) are a comparatively new class of asthma drugs that exhibit both bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties. There is a substantial body of evidence for their benefit in the management of chronic asthma in both adults and children, and particularly in specific types of asthma such as exercise-induced and aspirin-sensitive asthma. Despite best practice using current treatment guidelines for the management of acute asthma, a significant proportion of patients require continued treatment and are unable to be discharged from the emergency department; many require a short course of oral corticosteroids. The relatively rapid onset of action of LTRAs after oral administration and their additive effect to beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonists led to the hypothesis that they might be of benefit in acute asthma. This review examines the available evidence for the effect of LTRAs in acute asthma. Although the evidence is limited, it suggests that treatment with LTRAs provides additional bronchodilator effect to nebulised and inhaled beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonists. Short-term therapy with LTRAs results in fewer treatment failures and readmissions for patients with acute asthma, and less need for additional therapies such as nebulisers and corticosteroids.
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30
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Hakim F, Vilozni D, Adler A, Livnat G, Tal A, Bentur L. The effect of montelukast on bronchial hyperreactivity in preschool children. Chest 2007; 131:180-6. [PMID: 17218573 DOI: 10.1378/chest.06-1402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The effect of montelukast therapy on bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) as measured by the methacholine challenge test in preschool children has not yet been reported. OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of montelukast (4 mg/d) on BHR as evaluated by a provocative concentration of a substance causing a 20% fall in FEV(1) (PC(20)) values in preschool asthmatic children. PATIENTS A total of 26 preschool children (8 girls) aged 3.3 to 6.0 years (mean [+/- SD] age, 4.7 +/- 0.8 years) with mild asthma. DESIGN Double-blind randomized, placebo controlled, crossover study. Each child received 4 weeks of treatment with 4 mg of either montelukast or placebo separated by a 2-week washout period. Primary outcomes were PC(20) values and the stage number (triple dose) at which FEV(1) values dropped by 20%(.) Post-montelukast therapy PC(20) was compared to those for the post-placebo period. RESULTS Following 4 weeks of montelukast treatment, the mean PC(20) was 4.79 +/- 4.69 mg/mL, while after 4 weeks of placebo the mean PC(20) was 2.07 +/- 2.37 mg/mL (p = 0.001). The montelukast/placebo ratio for PC(20) was 2.56 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.71 to 3.99. The median difference in stage was one triple dose with a 95% CI of 0.5 to 1.5. CONCLUSIONS Four weeks of treatment with montelukast resulted in a decreased BHR compared with placebo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahed Hakim
- Pediatric Pulmonology Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital, Rambam Medical Center, PO Box 9602, Haifa, 31092 Israel
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31
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Colucci R, Fornai M, Tuccori M, Antonioli L, Pasqualetti G, Blandizzi C, Del Tacca M. Tolerability profiles of leukotriene receptor antagonists and long-acting beta2-adrenoceptor agonists in combination with inhaled corticosteroids for treatment of asthma: a review. J Asthma 2007; 44:411-22. [PMID: 17654125 DOI: 10.1080/02770900701247178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta2-adrenoceptor agonists, and leukotriene receptor antagonists are widely used for treatment of asthma. Inhaled corticosteroids are recommended as first-line therapy, whereas long-acting beta2-adrenoceptor agonists and leukotriene receptor antagonists are indicated as add-on therapy in patients not adequately controlled with corticosteroids alone. A number of studies have investigated the efficacy of combinations of these drugs in asthma, but several issues concerning the safety of these treatments are highly debated. This review provides a critical appraisal of the tolerability profiles of long-acting beta2-agonists and leukotriene receptor antagonists used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids for the treatment of asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Colucci
- Interdepartmental Centre for Research in Clinical Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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32
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Abstract
The non-corticosteroids approved for the maintenance therapy of persistent asthma include the long-acting inhaled beta(2) agonists (LABAs), leukotriene modifiers, chromones, theophylline and omalizumab. This review assesses the benefits and risks of each in relation to the inhaled corticosteroids and each other. Neither the LABAs nor omalizumab should be used as monotherapy for persistent asthma. There is no evidence of clinically significant differences in efficacy between the chromones, theophylline and leukotriene modifiers as monotherapy in mild-moderate persistent asthma; thus the choice of one therapy over the other is a clinical decision based upon differences in safety, acceptability to the patient and ease of use. Although there is significant variability in response to various therapies, non response to one therapy is not predictive of response to another. Neither studies of phenotypes nor genotypes have provided acceptable determinants of response as yet. As adjunctive therapy to the inhaled corticosteroids for moderate-severe persistent asthma, the LABAs provide superior improvement in lung function and reduction in exacerbations relative to higher doses of inhaled corticosteroids and the other noncorticosteroids used as adjunctive therapy. Thus, LABAs remain the adjunctive therapy of choice in patients not adequately controlled on low-medium dose inhaled corticosteroids. Omalizumab has not been compared with the other adjunctive therapies, so its relative efficacy is unknown. However, it is the only adjunctive therapy added to the combination of an inhaled corticosteroid plus LABA to demonstrate further improvement in a controlled clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- H William Kelly
- University of New Mexico, Department of Pediatrics, Pediatrics/Pulmonary, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131-0001, USA.
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33
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Horiguchi T, Ohira D, Kobayashi K, Hirose M, Miyazaki J, Kondo R, Tachikawa S. Clinical evaluation of leukotriene receptor antagonists in preventing common cold-like symptoms in bronchial asthma patients. Allergol Int 2007; 56:263-7. [PMID: 17582209 DOI: 10.2332/allergolint.o-06-473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2006] [Accepted: 01/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated the possibility of preventing common cold-like symptoms as a previously unknown benefit of leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs). METHODS A total of 279 adult patients with bronchial asthma referred to our hospital between June and December 2004 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into LTRA treated and untreated groups. Frequency of acute exacerbations and number of visits to emergency rooms and of hospital admissions were analyzed as indicators of frequency of infections and asthma exacerbation over the previous 12 months. RESULTS Irrespective of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) use, frequency of infections was significantly lower in the LTRA treated group (0.3 +/- 0.7 times/year) than in the LTRA untreated group (1.6 +/- 4.2 times/year) (P < 0.05), suggesting that LTRA therapy prevents common cold-like symptoms. Frequency of acute exacerbations and number of hospital admissions were significantly lower in the LTRA treated versus LTRA untreated group (0.4 +/- 0.8 versus 2.7 +/- 4.3 times/year and 0.0 +/- 0.2 versus 0.4 +/- 0.7 times/year, respectively; both P < 0.01). When the patients were divided into ICS treated and untreated groups, none of the parameters analyzed differed significantly between the two groups, although all parameters tended to be lower in the ICS treated group. CONCLUSIONS Adult asthma patients undergoing treatment with LTRAs exhibit lower incidence rates of common cold-like symptoms than those not receiving LTRAs. LTRAs play an important role in reducing the incidence of common cold-like symptoms among asthma patients and in suppressing exacerbation of asthma symptoms possibly associated with these symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiko Horiguchi
- Department of Respiratory Internal Medicine, Second Educational Hospital of Fujita Health University, Aichi, Japan.
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Smith MBH. Is montelukast effective and well tolerated in the management of asthma in young children?: Part B: Clinical commentary. Paediatr Child Health 2007; 12:309-10. [PMID: 19030376 PMCID: PMC2528683 DOI: 10.1093/pch/12.4.309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michael BH Smith
- Craigavon Area Group Hospital Trust, Craigavon, Northern Ireland
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35
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Knorr B, Maganti L, Ramakrishnan R, Tozzi CA, Migoya E, Kearns G. Pharmacokinetics and safety of montelukast in children aged 3 to 6 months. J Clin Pharmacol 2006; 46:620-7. [PMID: 16707408 DOI: 10.1177/0091270006288324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The single-dose population estimate of the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC(pop)) from time zero to infinity (AUC(0-infinity)), maximum plasma concentration (C(max)), and time to C(max) (t(max)) of montelukast 4-mg oral granules were investigated in infants aged 3 to 6 months. Montelukast concentrations were quantitated after a single 4-mg dose of montelukast oral granules. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using a population-based approach with a nonlinear mixed-effect, 1-compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination. Ninety-five percent confidence intervals for the AUC(pop) ratio (3 to 6 months/6 to 24 months) were determined. Safety and tolerability were assessed. Montelukast 4-mg oral granules in children 3 to 6 months of age yielded systemic exposure (AUC(pop) = 3644.3 +/- 481.5 ng x h/mL) similar to that observed in children aged 6 to 24 months (3226.6 +/- 250.0 ng x h/mL). Systemic exposure after a 4-mg dose of montelukast as oral granules is similar in children aged 3 to 6 months and 6 to 24 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Knorr
- Merck Research Laboratories, Respiratory and Allergy Department, RY34B-332, 126 East Lincoln Avenue, Rahway, NJ 07065, USA.
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36
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Chang AB, Winter D, Acworth JP. Leukotriene receptor antagonist for prolonged non-specific cough in children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2006; 2006:CD005602. [PMID: 16625643 PMCID: PMC8896275 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd005602.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-specific cough is defined as non-productive cough in the absence of identifiable respiratory disease or known aetiology. It is commonly seen in paediatric practice. These children are treated with a variety of therapies including a variety of asthma medications. The leukotriene pathway is reported to be involved in the sensory (neurogenic) pathway, which is a mechanism thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of chronic cough. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) in treating children with prolonged non-specific cough. SEARCH STRATEGY The Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), the Cochrane Airways Group Specialised Register, MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched by the Cochrane Airways Group. The latest searches were carried out in September 2005. SELECTION CRITERIA All randomised controlled trials comparing LTRA with a placebo medication in children with non-specific cough. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Results of searches were reviewed against pre-determined criteria for inclusion. One eligible trial was identified but no data was available for analysis. It was not possible to separate results from children with non-specific cough from those without. MAIN RESULTS There was no significant difference in all study endpoints between the montelukast and placebo groups (total N=256). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS With the lack of evidence, the routine use of LRTA in treating children with non-specific cough cannot be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- A B Chang
- Royal Children's Hospital, Respiratory Medicine, Herston Road, Herston, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, 4029.
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37
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Abstract
UNLABELLED Leukotriene modifiers (receptor antagonist and biosynthesis inhibitor) represent the first mediator specific therapeutic option for asthma. Montelukast, a leukotriene receptor antagonist is the only such agent approved for use in pediatric patients. Montelukast modifies action of leukotrienes, which are the most potent bronchoconstrictors, by blocking Cysteinyl leukotriene receptors. Systemic drug like mountelukast can reach lower airways and improves the peripheral functions which play a crucial role in the evolution of asthma. Review of existing literature showed that montelukast compared to placebo has proven clinical efficacy in better control of day time asthma symptoms, percentage of symptom free days, need for rescue drugs and improvement in FEV 1. Studies also demonstrated improvement in airway inflammation as indicated by reduction in fractional exhaled nitric oxide, a marker of inflammation. Studies comparing low dose inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) with montelukast are limited in children and conclude that it is not superior to ICS. For moderate to severe persistent asthma, montelukast has been compared with long acting beta agonists (LABA) as an add-on therapy to ICS, montelukast was less efficacious and less cost-effective. It has beneficial effects in exercise induced asthma and aspirin-sensitive asthma. Montelukast has onset of action within one hour. Patient satisfaction and compliance was better with montelukast than inhaled anti-inflammatory agents due to oral, once a day administration. The recommended doses of montelukast in asthma are- children 1-5 years: 4 mg chewable tablet, children 6-14 years: 5mg chewable tablet, ADULTS 10mg tablet; administered once daily. The drug is well tolerated. Based on the presently available data montelukast may be an alternative treatment for mild persistent asthma as monotherapy where ICS cannot be administered. It is also an alternative to LABA as an add-on therapy to ICS for moderate to severe persistent asthma. The other indications for use of montelukast include: allergic rhinitis, exercise induced bronchoconstriction and aspirin-induced asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandeep Walia
- Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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38
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Current awareness: Pharmacoepidemiology and drug safety. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2006. [DOI: 10.1002/pds.1174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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39
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Kelly HW. Inhaled Corticosteroids versus Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists as First-line Therapy for Mild Persistent Asthma in Children? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.1089/pai.2005.18.259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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