Zileuton is part of a group of medications called leukotriene synthesis inhibitors. Leukotrienes are chemicals produced by the body in response to allergens or other substances. In the lungs, leukotrienes cause swelling and inflammation in the airways and constriction of the muscles of the respiratory tract.
Zileuton works by stopping the body from making leukotrienes, preventing these chemicals from causing asthma symptoms.
Is Zileuton Used for Childhood Asthma?
Zileuton is approved for treating asthma in children as young as 12 years old. Talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using the drug in children.
Is Zileuton Used for Off-Label Reasons?
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend zileuton for treating something other than preventing asthma attacks. At this time, using zileuton to treat allergies is considered to be an off-label use for the medication.