Clinical evidence for antileukotriene therapy in the management of allergic rhinitis

Abstract

This article presents information summarizing the findings of several clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy and safety of leukotriene receptor antagonists in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. After reading this article, readers will have a greater understanding of these clinical findings and their implications for the management of allergic rhinitis. Relevant and appropriately controlled clinical trials were used. Only literature in the English language was reviewed. Material was taken from academic/scholarly publications, published abstracts, and papers presented at a major congress. Similar to their contribution to the pathogenesis of asthma, cysteinyl leukotrienes have been found to exert potent inflammatory effects in the upper airways and to play a role in the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis. The guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of allergic rhinitis emphasize the importance of treating the pathophysiologic pathways of the disease. Thus, the use of antileukotriene therapy is a rational therapeutic option for patients with allergic rhinitis. Findings from several randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials confirm the efficacy of leukotriene receptor antagonists in reducing the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and improving quality of life. Clinical experience with these medications has also demonstrated their tolerability and safety. Results from recently completed and ongoing clinical trials have expanded the body of evidence for the safety and efficacy of antileukotrienes in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.