The Effect of Montelukast on Mild Persistent OSA after Adenotonsillectomy in Children: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

This study sought to evaluate the treatment effect of montelukast in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) after tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy (T&A). Fifty‐eight children with persistent OSA after T&A were included and randomly divided into 2 groups: one group was administered montelukast for 12 weeks, and the other received no treatment. Clinical information, such as the apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) and nadir oxyhemoglobin saturation (nadir SpO 2 ), was recorded. Symptoms of OSA were evaluated using the validated Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ). After surgery, there was no difference in terms of AHI, nadir SpO 2 , and PSQ scores between 2 groups. After the 12‐week course of montelukast administration, the treatment group had significant improvement in the AHI, nadir SpO 2 , and PSQ scores ( P <. 001), while the no‐treatment group had no change over time ( P >. 05). In summary, montelukast as a complementary therapy can improve sleep disturbances in children with OSA after T&A.