Drug reference
sodium cromoglycate
Mast cell stabilizer, Chromone derivative · Antiasthmatic, Anti-allergic
Mast cell stabilizer, Chromone derivativeAntiasthmatic, Anti-allergic
CDSCO approved
EXCRETION
—
not curated
INTERACTIONS
—
none in our sources
PREGNANCY
—
not curated
Mechanism
It inhibits degranulation of mast cells (as well as other inflammatory cells) by trigger stimuli. This restricts the release of mediators of asthma like histamine, LTs, PAF, interleukins. The basis may involve a delayed Cl¯ channel in the membrane of these cells. Chemotaxis of inflammatory cells is also inhibited.
Indications
Long-term prophylactic in mild-to-moderate asthmaExtrinsic (atopic) asthmaExercise-induced asthma (especially in younger patients)Allergic rhinitisAllergic conjunctivitis
Dosing
- Adult
- Aerosol 1 mg per dose, 2 puffs 4 times a day (for asthma). Nasal spray 2%, 2 squeezes in each nostril QID (for allergic rhinitis). Eye drops 2% and 4%, 1 drop in each eye QID (for allergic conjunctivitis).
Pharmacokinetics
Bioavailability
Not absorbed orally. Only a small fraction of the inhaled drug is absorbed systemically.
Excretion
Rapidly excreted unchanged in urine and bile
Contraindications
- Ineffective if given during an asthmatic attack (not a bronchodilator and does not antagonize constrictor action)
Side effects
Common
Bronchospasm (in some patients, especially with fine powder inhalation)Throat irritation (in some patients, especially with fine powder inhalation)Cough (in some patients, especially with fine powder inhalation)Nasal congestion (rarely)Headache (rarely)Dizziness (rarely)Arthralgia (rarely)Rashes (rarely)
Related guidelines
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Sources: KD Tripathi 7e·Verified: 2026-05-10 · House clinical team