Paediatric research
Montelukast shows promise for treating children with 5/5 ALOX5 genetic variant, study suggests
Subgroup analysis indicated that montelukast outperformed placebo in children with the 5/5 ALOX5 variant.
Source: Molekuul.be / Alamy
Genetics plays a part in the efficacy of montelukast (pictured) in children
Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used to treat wheeze but its value in young children is unproven. The WAIT trial therefore assessed the effectiveness of intermittently dosed montelukast in 1,358 children aged 10 months to 5 years.
Study results reported in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine (online, 9 September 2014)[1] show that montelukast was no more effective than placebo for reducing unscheduled medical attendances for wheezing episodes. However, subgroup analysis indicated that the treatment benefit varied according to the arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase (ALOX5) promoter genotype, with montelukast outperforming placebo in children with the 5/5 ALOX5 variant.
“Further data from stratified trials are needed before treatment is targeted to a responsive subgroup,” conclude Jonathan Grigg, from Queen Mary University of London, and co-authors.
Citation: The Pharmaceutical Journal DOI: 10.1211/PJ.2014.20066434
Recommended from Pharmaceutical Press
- Previous
- Next
BNF and British National Formulary for Children
Now available as a 1 year print subscription to both the BNF and British National Formulary for Children, ensuring you have the latest medicines information as it publishes and at a greatly reduced price.
£138.50Buy now
BNF and British National Formulary for Children
Now available as a 2 year print subscription to both the BNF and British National Formulary for Children, ensuring you have the latest medicines information as it publishes and at a greatly reduced price.
£262.50Buy now
Essentials of Economic Evaluation in Healthcare
An introduction to economic evaluation specific to healthcare, for those with little or no knowledge of economics. Covers cost effectiveness, cost utility and cost benefit analysis.
£33.00Buy now
Paediatric Drug Handling
Written for new pharmaceutical scientists, this book provides a background in paediatric pharmacy and a comprehensive introduction to children's medication.
£33.00Buy now
Introduction to Renal Therapeutics
Introduction to Renal Therapeutics covers all aspects of drug use in renal failure. Shows the role of the pharmacist in patient care for chronic kidney disease.
£38.00Buy now
Print 
PDF
Have your say
For commenting, please login or register as a user and agree to our Community Guidelines. You will be re-directed back to this page where you will have the ability to comment.