Which drug class does montelukast belong to?

Montelukast belongs to the class of medications known as leukotriene receptor antagonists. This class of drugs works by blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are chemicals in the body that contribute to inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus production in the airways. By inhibiting these leukotrienes, montelukast helps to reduce symptoms of asthma and allergic rhinitis, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, nasal congestion, and other allergic symptoms.

Montelukast is particularly useful for asthma management and is often prescribed for patients who experience exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, as well as those with seasonal allergies. Unlike corticosteroids, which directly reduce inflammation, leukotriene receptor antagonists provide a different mechanism of action that targets the specific inflammatory pathways mediated by leukotrienes. This makes montelukast an important option in the therapeutic arsenal for managing conditions associated with allergic rhinitis and asthma.