LEUKOTRIENE RECEPTOR ANTAGONISTS AND BRON CHIAL-ASTHMA

Leukotrienes play an important role in the pathogenesis of the allergi c bronchial asthma. The cysteinyl-leukotrienes C-4, D-4 and E-4 (forme rly known as slow reacting substance of anaphylaxis, SRS-A) are able t o induce all components of the asthmatic reaction. The synthesis of ad equate receptor antagonists stimulated expectations to develop on this way new and especially effective antiasthmatic drugs. The results of the first generation was disappointing. Newer compounds are able to pr otect from bronchoconstriction-inducing noxes (especially in analgesic intolerance), to improve chronic asthma (symptoms scores, long-time r esp. rescue medication). Especially remarkable are recent data which p rove antiinflammatory activities. Studies are underway to define the p osition of these drugs in generally accepted recommendations on asthma therapy. This group of drugs is the first one with a defined action.