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montelukast (Singulair)

University of Bologna · FDA-approved active Small molecule

montelukast (Singulair) is a Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) Small molecule drug developed by University of Bologna. It is currently FDA-approved for Asthma (chronic maintenance treatment), Allergic rhinitis, Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Also known as: Singulair.

Montelukast blocks cysteinyl leukotriene receptors (CysLT1) on airway and immune cells, preventing leukotriene-mediated inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

Montelukast blocks cysteinyl leukotriene receptors (CysLT1) on airway and immune cells, preventing leukotriene-mediated inflammation and bronchoconstriction. Used for Asthma (chronic maintenance treatment), Allergic rhinitis, Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.

At a glance

Generic namemontelukast (Singulair)
Also known asSingulair
SponsorUniversity of Bologna
Drug classCysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA)
TargetCysLT1 receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaRespiratory / Immunology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Leukotrienes are inflammatory mediators released by mast cells and eosinophils that bind to CysLT1 receptors, causing airway smooth muscle contraction, mucus secretion, and eosinophil recruitment. By antagonizing these receptors, montelukast reduces airway inflammation and improves airflow in asthma and allergic rhinitis. This mechanism is particularly effective in leukotriene-driven inflammatory pathways.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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Frequently asked questions about montelukast (Singulair)

What is montelukast (Singulair)?

montelukast (Singulair) is a Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) drug developed by University of Bologna, indicated for Asthma (chronic maintenance treatment), Allergic rhinitis, Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.

How does montelukast (Singulair) work?

Montelukast blocks cysteinyl leukotriene receptors (CysLT1) on airway and immune cells, preventing leukotriene-mediated inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

What is montelukast (Singulair) used for?

montelukast (Singulair) is indicated for Asthma (chronic maintenance treatment), Allergic rhinitis, Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction.

Who makes montelukast (Singulair)?

montelukast (Singulair) is developed and marketed by University of Bologna (see full University of Bologna pipeline at /company/university-of-bologna).

Is montelukast (Singulair) also known as anything else?

montelukast (Singulair) is also known as Singulair.

What drug class is montelukast (Singulair) in?

montelukast (Singulair) belongs to the Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) class. See all Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA) drugs at /class/cysteinyl-leukotriene-receptor-antagonist-ltra.

What development phase is montelukast (Singulair) in?

montelukast (Singulair) is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of montelukast (Singulair)?

Common side effects of montelukast (Singulair) include Headache, Influenza-like illness, Abdominal pain, Cough, Neuropsychiatric effects (mood changes, suicidality).

What does montelukast (Singulair) target?

montelukast (Singulair) targets CysLT1 receptor and is a Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA).

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