Emerging treatments

Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs)

Leukotrienes are pro-inflammatory mediators that play important roles in both early and late asthma airway response to allergen challenge. LTRAs inhibit a part of the asthma inflammatory response that is relatively unaffected by oral corticosteroids. Although they can provide some bronchodilation and improvements in lung function, there is currently limited evidence to support a role for oral or intravenous LTRAs in acute asthma.[128][129][130][131] [ Cochrane Clinical Answers logo ] ​ They are not recommended in the acute setting.[7]​ The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released a warning about the potentially serious behaviour and mood-related adverse effects of montelukast, advising healthcare professionals to consider the benefits and risks before prescribing montelukast.[132]

Vitamin D

There is currently insufficient evidence to make a recommendation for the use of vitamin D as a preventive treatment for asthma attacks in children.[133][134]

Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer