Leukotriene receptor antagonists for non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.

BACKGROUND

Leukotriene receptor antagonists are a new class of drug that were initially identified for use in asthma. As they have an effect on neutrophil mediated inflammation, they may be of benefit in bronchiectasis.

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether leukotriene receptor antagonists have any additive benefit over and above conventional treatment for bronchiectasis (usually consisting of antibiotics and postural drainage).

SEARCH STRATEGY

The Cochrane Airways Group clinical trials register derived from MEDLINE, EMBASE and hand searching of major journals was searched using the terms:Bronchiec* AND leukotrien* OR anti-leuk* OR cysteinyl, Bronchiec* AND monteluk*, Bronchiec* AND zafirluk*

SELECTION CRITERIA

Only randomised, controlled trials were considered

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

The results of searches were analysed by both authors

MAIN RESULTS

No randomised, controlled trials were identified

REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS

Further research is required to establish any benefit from the use of leukotriene antagonists in bronchiectasis.