What is the role of montelukast in asthma management?

• A. It is a daily preventive medication used to reduce symptoms.
• B. It provides immediate bronchodilation during an attack.
• C. It should be used only during emergencies.
• D. It replaces inhaled corticosteroids.

Answer: (A)

Montelukast is a daily preventive medication used to reduce asthma symptoms by blocking leukotriene receptors and thus decreasing airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness. It is taken regularly (usually once daily) to maintain control, not to treat an acute attack. Because it’s not a bronchodilator, it doesn’t provide immediate relief during emergencies and it isn’t a rescue inhaler. It also doesn’t replace inhaled corticosteroids, though it can be added to ICS therapy or, in some mild cases, used as an alternative to ICS under supervision.