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.