Leukotriene inhibitors
Leukotriene Inhibitors
Leukotriene inhibitors (pronounced: loo-ko-try-een in-hib-it-ors) are a type of medication used in the treatment of asthma and allergic rhinitis.
Etymology
The term "leukotriene" is derived from the Greek words "leuko-" meaning white and "triene" referring to the three double bonds in its chemical structure. "Inhibitor" comes from the Latin word "inhibere" which means to restrain or stop.
Function
Leukotriene inhibitors work by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are chemicals in the body that are involved in inflammation and allergic reactions. By inhibiting these chemicals, the medication can help to reduce symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and nasal congestion.
Types
There are two main types of leukotriene inhibitors: leukotriene receptor antagonists and 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors. Leukotriene receptor antagonists, such as montelukast and zafirlukast, work by blocking the receptors that leukotrienes bind to. 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors, such as zileuton, work by blocking the enzyme that produces leukotrienes.
Side Effects
Like all medications, leukotriene inhibitors can have side effects. These may include headache, nausea, and in rare cases, psychological effects such as agitation or hallucinations. It is important to discuss any potential side effects with a healthcare professional before starting treatment.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Leukotriene inhibitors
- Wikipedia's article - Leukotriene inhibitors
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