Which treatment is commonly used in managing aspirin exacerbated respiratory disease?

Leukotriene receptor antagonists are commonly used in managing aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) due to their role in blocking the action of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory mediators that contribute to bronchoconstriction and airway inflammation. In patients with AERD, the ingestion of aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can provoke severe asthma attacks due to increased production of leukotrienes.

By inhibiting leukotriene receptors, these antagonists can help to relieve symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks, and improve overall asthma control. This is particularly important in AERD patients who already have an underlying sensitivity to aspirin, making effective management crucial for their respiratory health.

While other treatments like beta-agonists and corticosteroids may be used in broader asthma management, they do not specifically target the leukotriene pathway, which is central to the exacerbation seen in AERD. Antihistamines also do not address the biosynthesis and action of leukotrienes and are therefore less effective in this specific context.