Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) are considered what type of medication in relation to other treatments?

Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) are classified as add-on medications in relation to other treatments, particularly in the management of asthma and allergic conditions. This classification reflects their role in a broader therapeutic strategy. LTRAs are used in conjunction with other medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, to enhance bronchial inflammation control and improve overall symptom management.

Their effectiveness is particularly notable when standard treatments alone do not sufficiently control symptoms, indicating that they serve a complementary role. For instance, when a patient continues to experience asthma symptoms while being treated with an inhaled corticosteroid, an LTRA can be introduced to provide additional control.

While LTRAs can be utilized in long-term management (which is often the case) and can play a role in controlling acute symptoms (though not typically classified as rescue medications), their primary utility lies in their capacity to enhance treatment when used alongside other primary medications. Thus, identifying them as an add-on treatment effectively captures their purpose in clinical practice.