n. one of a class of powerful chemical agents synthesized from arachidonic acid by mast cells, basophils, macrophages, and various other tissues. Leukotrienes are involved in inflammatory reactions and the immune response: they increase the permeability of small blood vessels, cause contraction of smooth muscle, and attract neutrophils to the site of an infection.
A group of naturally occurring, slow-reacting substances (SRSS) which have powerful smooth-muscle stimulating properties, particularly on bronchial smooth muscle. Leukotrienes are a metabolic derivative of PROSTAGLANDINS. Leukotriene receptor antagonists, such as montelukast and za?rlukast, are drugs useful in asthma.... leukotrienes
one of a class of drugs that prevent the action of *leukotrienes by blocking their receptors on cell membranes, such as those in the airways. These drugs are used in the management of asthma for their effects in relaxing the smooth muscle of the airways and in reducing inflammation in the bronchial linings. Examples are montelukast and zafirlukast; side-effects may include headache and abdominal pain or gastrointestinal upsets.... leukotriene receptor antagonist
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