Lipoxygenases are an iron-containing oxidoreductases which found in the tissues and cells of plants and animals.Lipoxygenases are mainly divided into 6 subtypes of 1,3,5,8,12 and 15-lipoxygenase.5-lipoxygenase(5-LOX)is a non-heme ferritin oxidative metabolic enzyme which has been studied deeply among LOX isoenzymes,and it is a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of many highly active oxidative lipids.The key role of the 5-lipoxygenase in formation of inflammation,asthma,cerebral ischemia,some malignant tumors and Alzheimer's disease had been demonstrated.Therefore,the development of effective 5-LOX inhibitors is crucial for the treatment of these diseases.This article,reviews the research findings introducing 5-LOX inhibitors,by focusing on the classification,and discusses on their sources,therapeutic efficacy,advantages and disadvantages of them.It can provide a theoretical basis for further research and development of innovative 5-LOX inhibitors.