Possible Therapeutic Potential of Cysteinyl Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist Montelukast in Treatment of SARS-CoV-2-Induced COVID-19

Abstract

<b><i>Background:</i></b> The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic is a serious devastating disease and has posed a global health emergency. So far, there is not any specific therapy approved till date to control the clinical symptoms of the disease. Remdesivir has been approved by the FDA as an emergency clinical therapy. But it may not be effective alone to control the disease as it can only control the viral replication in the host. <b><i>Summary:</i></b> This article summarizes the possible therapeutic potential and benefits of using montelukast, a cysteinyl leukotriene 1 (CysLT₁) receptor antagonist, to control COVID-19 pathophysiology. Montelukast has shown anti-inflammatory effects, reduced cytokine production, improvement in post-infection cough production and other lung complications. <b><i>Key Messages:</i></b> Recent reports clearly indicate a distinct role of CysLT-regulated cytokines and immunological signaling in COVID-19. Thus, montelukast may have a clinical potential to control lung pathology during COVID-19.