HealthCare

Leukotriene Modifiers: Leukotriene modifiers, such as montclukast, zafirlukast, and zileuton, are the new asthma medications. They are anti-inflammatory drags, preventing the action or synthesis of leukotrienes, chemicals made by the body that cause bronchoconstriction. These drugs, which are taken by mouth, are used more to prevent asthma attacks than to treat them, although because leukotrienes arc increased in acute asthma, these drugs potentially can be used during an attack as well.

Corticosteroids: These drugs block the body's inflammatory response and are exceptionally effective at reducing asthma symptoms. They are the most potent form of anti-inflammatory drugs and have been an important part of asthma treatment for decades. They are given in the inhaled form to prevent attacks and improve lung function. They are given by mouth in higher doses for people experiencing severe attacks. Corticosteroids given by mouth are generally continued for at least several days after a severe attack. Corticosteroids can be taken in several different forms. Often, inhaled versions are best because they deliver the drug directly to the airways and minimize the amount sent throughout the body. They come in several strengths and are generally used twice a day. The person should rinse the mouth after use to decrease the likelihood that an infection of the mouth (thrush) develops.

Oral or injected corticosteroids may be used in high doses to relieve a severe asthma attack and are generally continued for I to 2 weeks. Oral corticosteroids are prescribed on a long-term basis only when no other treatments can control the symptoms. If taken for long periods, corticosteroids gradually reduce the likelihood of an asthma attack by making the airways less sensitive to a number of provocative stimuli. Long-term use of orticosteroids, especially larger doses taken by mouth, can produce side effects.

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