🍽️ cromolyn disodium salt,(prescription)

Asthma: Cromolyn sodium is used as a preventive medication to manage asthma symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. It belongs to the class of medications known as mast cell stabilizers, which work by preventing the release of inflammatory mediators such as histamine from mast cells in the airways. By stabilizing mast cells, cromolyn sodium helps reduce airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction (narrowing of the airways), and the occurrence of asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

Allergic Rhinitis: Cromolyn sodium is also indicated for the management of allergic rhinitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the nasal mucosa due to allergen exposure. It is available as a nasal spray formulation for the treatment of allergic rhinitis symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny or stuffy nose, and nasal congestion. Cromolyn sodium acts locally in the nasal passages to inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators and reduce nasal congestion and other allergic symptoms.

Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB): Cromolyn sodium may be used prophylactically to prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, a temporary narrowing of the airways that occurs during or after physical exertion in individuals with asthma or exercise-induced asthma. By inhibiting mast cell degranulation and the release of bronchoconstrictive mediators, cromolyn sodium helps maintain airway patency and prevent symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath during exercise.

Dosage and Administration: Cromolyn sodium is available in various formulations, including inhalation solution for nebulization, metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), and nasal spray. The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the specific indication being treated, the severity of symptoms, and the individual patient's response to therapy. Cromolyn sodium is typically used on a regular basis to achieve optimal preventive effects and may require several weeks of continuous use to attain maximum benefit.

Side Effects: Cromolyn sodium is generally well-tolerated, with minimal systemic absorption and few reported side effects. Common side effects may include mild irritation or burning sensation in the nose or throat (with nasal spray use), cough, sneezing, and nasal dryness. Rarely, allergic reactions or hypersensitivity reactions to cromolyn sodium may occur, manifesting as skin rash, itching, or swelling. Patients should discontinue use and seek medical attention if they experience signs of an allergic reaction.

Contraindications and Precautions: Cromolyn sodium is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to cromolyn sodium or any of its components. It should be used with caution in patients with severe asthma or acute bronchospasm, as it may not provide immediate relief of acute symptoms. Cromolyn sodium is not intended for the treatment of acute asthma attacks or status asthmaticus and should not be used as a rescue medication for sudden worsening of asthma symptoms.