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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › DRUGS FOR OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES › OTHER DRUGS FOR OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES, INHALANTS › Antiallergic agents, excl. corticosteroids
cromoglicic acid
R03BC01
Forms & Strengths
- Inhalation solution 0.5 mg/mL (Nebulizer)
- Inhalation aerosol 20 µg per actuation (Metered‑dose inhaler)
- Oral tablets 100 mg each
- Oral solution 10 mg/mL
Adult Dosing
- Asthma prophylaxis (inhalation): 200 µg (2 puffs) 4×/day via DPI or 5 mg nebulized 3–4×/day
- Exercise‑induced bronchospasm: 200 µg 15 min before exercise, repeat every 4 h if needed
- Allergic rhinitis (oral): 200 mg tablet 4×/day
- Mastocytosis (oral): 200 mg 4×/day
Pediatric Dosing
- Ages ≥2 yr (inhalation): 0.5 mg (200 µg) 4×/day via nebulizer or DPI
- Children 2–12 yr (nebulized): 5 mg 3–4×/day
- Allergic rhinitis (oral, ≥6 yr): 200 mg 4×/day
- Dose can be adjusted to 0.025 mg/kg per dose, max 200 µg per inhalation
Indications
- Prophylaxis and chronic treatment of bronchial asthma
- Prevention of exercise‑induced bronchospasm
- Allergic rhinitis (intranasal/off‑label oral)
- Mast cell activation disorders (mastocytosis, food allergy – off‑label)
Mechanism of Action
- Stabilizes mast cells and prevents degranulation
- Inhibits calcium influx into mast cells, blocking release of histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins
- Reduces IgE‑mediated early‑phase allergic response
- Modest inhibition of eosinophil migration and mediator release
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cromoglicic acid or any excipients
- Use as rescue therapy for acute bronchospasm
- Severe renal impairment (caution, limited data)
Adverse Reactions
- Cough, throat irritation, and bitter taste (inhaled forms)
- Paradoxical bronchospasm (rare)
- Nausea, abdominal discomfort (oral)
- Headache, dizziness
- Rare skin rash or urticaria
Drug Interactions
- Additive bronchodilatory effect with β2‑agonists and anticholinergics
- No clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions with corticosteroids, xanthines, or leukotriene modifiers
- May increase efficacy of inhaled steroids in combination therapy
- Concurrent use with other mast‑cell stabilizers – no synergy, but no added toxicity
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use