How effective are leukotriene inhibitors for asthma in children?

Abstract

Evidence on the use of leukotriene inhibitors in children is insufficient to permit conclusions regarding efficacy. Given the proven efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids in asthma management, leukotriene inhibitors should not replace inhaled corticosteroids for maintenance of asthma in children (strength of recommendation: B). Current guidelines that list leukotriene inhibitors as a potential addition or alternative to corticosteroid therapy in children with asthma appear to be based on scant studies and extrapolation from adult research.