MONTELUKAST IN PEDIATRIC ASTHMA: A REVIEW
Abstract
Asthma is a highly prevalent disease that can negatively impact the well-being of children and adolescents, and correct pharmacotherapy is essential in the management of symptoms and the prevention of exacerbations. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist widely used in asthma and allergic rhinitis. Here, we discuss the pharmacological aspects of montelukast, highlighting its role in the treatment of pediatric asthma. We searched papers and guidelines on PubMed, MedLine or Scielo, as well as websites of regulatory agencies. According to national and international guidelines, montelukast is an alternative to inhaled corticosteroids in the treatment of asthma in children and adolescents, being able to reduce airway inflammation and prevent bronchoconstriction. Although montelukast has a satisfactory efficacy and safety profile, pharmacovigilance studies have shown the occurrence of serious neuropsychiatric adverse reactions in pediatric patients, which contributes to the warnings issued by regulatory agencies. Future randomized clinical trials or observational studies on the safety of montelukast, in addition to mechanistic assays, are necessary and will contribute to support clinical decisions about the maintenance of the drug in pediatric asthma pharmacotherapy.
Keywords: Asthma; Pediatrics; Montelukast.
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