Montelukast Administration and Efficacy

Introduction to Montelukast

• The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recommends montelukast as an appropriate alternative therapy for mild persistent asthma in patients who are unable or unwilling to use inhaled corticosteroids 4, 5
• Leukotriene receptor antagonists like montelukast have advantages of ease of use and high rates of compliance 5, 6

Clinical Evidence for Montelukast

• When used as monotherapy, montelukast is less effective than inhaled corticosteroids for most asthma control outcomes, but still provides significant improvement compared to placebo 1, 2, 3
• Montelukast should never be used as rescue medication for acute asthma symptoms due to its delayed onset of action 4
• Montelukast is less effective than inhaled corticosteroids for most asthma control outcomes, so patients with moderate to severe persistent asthma may require additional or alternative controller medications 1, 2, 3