Comparative Efficacy of Montelukast–Levocetirizine Combination Therapy Versus Monotherapy in Allergic Rhinitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Ji-Sun Kim, Gulnaz Stybayeva, Se Hwan Hwang; Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2025; https://doi.org/10.1159/000547410

Abstract

Introduction: Combination therapy with antihistamines and leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) is frequently used in allergic rhinitis (AR), particularly in patients with persistent or inadequately controlled symptoms. However, supporting evidence has been inconsistent. This meta-analysis assessed the efficacy of montelukast combined with levocetirizine in patients with allergic rhinitis by directly comparing the combination therapy with each monotherapy and evaluating individual symptom domains.

Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted, with database searches performed through March 2025. Outcomes included daytime and nighttime total symptom scores, individual nasal symptoms, rhinoconjunctivitis-related quality of life (RQLQ), and treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). Pooled effects were calculated using standardized mean differences (SMDs) and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results: Seven RCTs (n = 887) were included. Combination therapy resulted in greater improvement in daytime symptoms (SMD [95% CI]: –0.42 [–0.64 to –0.20]), rhinorrhea (SMD [95% CI]: –0.69 [–1.09 to –0.30]), and nasal congestion (SMD [95% CI]: –0.64 [–1.05 to –0.24]) compared to monotherapy. RQLQ scores improved modestly overall (SMD [95% CI]: –0.37 [–0.72 to –0.01]), but subgroup analyses showed no significant difference compared to individual agents. TEAE rates were similar across groups (OR [95% CI]: 1.05 [0.57 to 1.94]).

Conclusion: Montelukast–levocetirizine combination therapy provided superior symptom control without increased adverse events, supporting its use as a potential treatment option in selected patients with AR.

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