Pranlukast

Pranlukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used in the management of asthma. It is a selective antagonist of the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor CysLT1, blocking the actions of leukotrienes LTC4, LTD4 and LTE4, which mediate bronchoconstriction and inflammation. It is a non-peptide oral medication.

In certain markets, pranlukast is indicated as an add-on therapy for mild to moderate persistent asthma in patients not adequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids. It has also been studied for allergic rhinitis. It is not approved in the United States.

Pharmacokinetics and metabolism: Pranlukast is taken by mouth. It achieves peak plasma concentrations within a few hours and is primarily metabolized in the liver, with excretion in urine and feces.

Safety and adverse effects: The drug is generally well tolerated. Common adverse effects include abdominal pain, dyspepsia and headache. Rare hepatic enzyme elevations and hepatotoxicity have been reported; patients should be monitored for signs of liver injury.

Drug interactions and contraindications: Caution is advised with significant hepatic impairment or with other drugs that affect liver enzymes. The potential for interactions with strong inhibitors or inducers of hepatic enzymes exists.

History: Pranlukast was developed by Ono Pharmaceutical and was marketed in Japan and other markets starting in the 1990s as part of the leukotriene receptor antagonist class, but it is not commonly used outside some countries.