2023-10-28 11:37:00
RSV Outbreak Raises Concerns About the Use of Montelukast in Young Children
October 27, 2023
In a recent Facebook post, Prof. Dr. Yong Poovorawan, a renowned virologist from Chulalongkorn University, highlighted the significant outbreak of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) that has occurred this year, particularly among children under the age of five. The outbreak, which began in June, is expected to continue until the end of the year.
Of particular concern is the use of Montelukast, an anti-leukotriene medication, in RSV patients with bronchiolitis. In Thailand, Montelukast is widely used to treat RSV patients and is also given as a long-term preventive measure for asthma symptoms in children. However, Prof. Dr. Yong Poovorawan stated that there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the use of Montelukast in these patients.
Prof. Dr. Yong Poovorawan cited a study conducted by Bisgaard H and colleagues in Denmark in 2003, which initially suggested that Montelukast was effective in reducing symptoms and hospital stays in RSV patients with bronchiolitis. However, when the study was replicated with a larger sample size and better age group control in 2008, the results revealed that Montelukast was not effective in treating RSV symptoms.
Further analysis by various groups of researchers, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, supported the conclusion that Montelukast is not beneficial in treating RSV with bronchiolitis. Despite this scientific evidence, Montelukast continues to be widely used in Thailand, even though it is expensive and may have side effects.
Prof. Dr. Yong Poovorawan expressed concerns about the extensive and long-term use of Montelukast in RSV patients, as it not only proves ineffective but also incurs additional costs for treatment. He emphasized the need for healthcare professionals and patients to be aware of the latest research findings, rather than relying solely on outdated references.
As the RSV outbreak continues to affect young children, it is crucial for medical practitioners and caregivers to stay informed about the most effective treatment options. The research conducted by Prof. Dr. Yong Poovorawan serves as a reminder that evidence-based medicine should guide the decisions surrounding the use of medications in RSV patients, especially in the case of Montelukast.]
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