What class of drugs does montelukast belong to?

Montelukast is classified as a leukotriene receptor antagonist. This class of drugs works by blocking leukotrienes, which are inflammatory chemicals that the body releases in response to allergens and respiratory irritants. By inhibiting these compounds, montelukast effectively helps to reduce inflammation and bronchoconstriction associated with conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis.

This mechanism of action distinguishes leukotriene receptor antagonists from other classes like corticosteroids, which primarily reduce inflammation through a different biological pathway, or beta-agonists, which focus on relaxing the muscles in the airways to improve breathing. Antihistamines primarily target histamine receptors to alleviate allergy symptoms, making them different from leukotriene receptor antagonists as well. The specific inhibition of leukotriene pathways is crucial for managing asthma and allergic responses, making this class particularly relevant in pulmonary medicine.