Asthma Treatment: Where does Singulair fit?

There are many triggers of asthma and co-morbidities (associated factors) that can affect the ability to control asthma. These include tobacco exposure, excess weight, aspirin sensitivity, and hereditary factors. Asthma associated with these factors appears to be related to an increase in inflammation triggered by leukotrienes (a highly potent chemical mediator released by immune cells that is about 1000 x more potent than histamine).

In the Journal of Asthma, a study was published that reviewed the impact of montelukast (Singulair), a leukotriene receptor blocker, on asthma with various complicating factors. This was a review of medical articles published in English and French through May 2012.

Their findings showed that Montelukast is an effective treatment for asthma:

• where patients also have rhinitis (allergies)

• induced by exercise

• linked to tobacco exposure

• in patients who are overweight

• in patients with aspirin sensitivity (allergy)

Although inhaled corticosteroid medications such as Qvar, Flovent, Asmanex, and Pulmicort are still considered the best first-line treatment for persistent asthma, for some patients (those described above) the addition of montelukast (Singulair) could be of particular benefit.

At Family Allergy Asthma & Sinus Care, we practice “individualized” medicine, where the best treatment options for each person are presented taking into account many factors. Asthma care is NOT a “one size fits all” lung disease— certain medications are better for particular people.