Study finds leukotriene modifiers work best for asthma sufferers

WILMINGTON, Del. Asthma patients have an easier time controlling their disease with oral controllers than with a common type of inhaled drug, according to a new study.

In a peer-reviewed study requested by WellPoint, conducted by HealthCore and published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings, patients taking oral controllers called leukotriene modifiers had better clinical results than those taking inhaled corticosteroids.

“Clinical superiority of the inhaled products has been well-documented in clinical trials, and the HealthCore study confirmed this for those who take their medication properly,” HealthCore VP clinical affairs Joseph Singer said in a statement. “However, we were surprised to discover that in looking at all patients in real-world settings, oral controllers appeared to be a better choice of treatment because of better compliance.”

Common leukotriene modifier brands include Merck & Co.’s Singulair (montelukast sodium), AstraZeneca’s Accolate (zafilukast) and Cornerstone Therapeutics’ Zyflo (zileuton).