Since zafirlukast and zileuton target a specific pathway, they do not have some of the side effects of the more general-acting medications. Further, both are oral pills, which some patients prefer over inhaled medications. Zafirlukast and zileuton are approved for adults and children over the age of 12. About 10 million Americans have asthma, of whom 3 million are under 18 years of age. The numbers are rising, for reasons not clear.
Symptoms can range from a chronic cough to severe shortness of breath.
Basically, there are two categories of medications for asthma treatment. Although relievers reverse narrowing of the airways, they do not reverse airway inflammation. In contrast, controllers reduce airway inflammation and therefore prevent bronchoconstriction and symptoms from occurring. Asthma is a controllable disease in almost all patients. Symptoms of Asthma Shortness of breath Wheezing Tightness in the chest Coughing that lasts more than six weeks For some people with asthma, a persistent cough may be the only symptom.