verlukast

Verlukast (MK-0679) is a potent and selective small molecule antagonist of the leukotriene D4 (LTD4) receptor, also known as the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 (CYSLTR1). It was developed by Merck as an oral therapy for asthma, particularly targeting patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma. Verlukast demonstrated significant clinical efficacy in blocking airway obstruction induced by inhaled lysine-aspirin and produced bronchodilation lasting at least nine hours in clinical studies. Despite its specificity and oral bioavailability, development was discontinued during late-stage trials due to concerns about liver enzyme elevations and insufficient potency compared to desired standards[2][3][6][7].

Other names

verlukast