Which medication inhibits 5-lipoxygenase and the action of leukotrienes?

The medication that inhibits 5-lipoxygenase and the action of leukotrienes is Zileuton. Zileuton directly targets the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase, which is responsible for the synthesis of leukotrienes from arachidonic acid. By inhibiting this enzyme, Zileuton effectively reduces the production of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory mediators involved in conditions such as asthma and allergic reactions. This mechanism can lead to decreased airway inflammation and improved respiratory function in patients susceptible to these inflammatory processes.

In contrast, other medications listed have different mechanisms of action. Cromolyn, for instance, stabilizes mast cells and prevents the release of mediators during allergic reactions but does not inhibit leukotriene synthesis. Zafirlukast and Montelukast are leukotriene receptor antagonists that block the action of leukotrienes at their receptors, rather than inhibiting their production. Therefore, Zileuton is the only option that specifically inhibits 5-lipoxygenase, making it the correct choice.