A drug used in the prophylactic (preventive) treatment of allergic disorders (see ALLERGY), particularly ASTHMA, conjunctivitis (see EYE, DISORDERS OF), nasal allergies, and food allergies – especially in children. Although inappropriate for the treatment of acute attacks of asthma, regular inhalations of the drug can reduce its incidence, and allow the dose of BRONCHODILATORS and oral CORTICOSTEROIDS to be cut.
Used in the prophylaxis of ASTHMA, it is administered by inhalation and can reduce the incidence of asthmatic attacks but is of no value in the treatment of an acute attack. It acts by preventing the release of pharmacological mediators of BRONCHOSPASM, particularly HISTAMINE, by stabilising mast-cell membranes. It is of particular use in patients whose asthma has an allergic basis; children over four may respond better than adults. It is less potent than inhaled steroids. The dose frequency is adjusted to the patient’s response but is usually administered by inhalation four times daily. Sodium cromoglycate is also used in the prophylaxis of allergic RHINITIS and to treat allergic conjunctivitis (see under EYE, DISORDERS OF).... sodium cromoglycate
a *bisphosphonate drug used to treat malignant *hypercalcaemia, breast cancer that has spread to the bones, and Paget’s disease. Side-effects include flulike symptoms, nausea, and vomiting.... pamidronate disodium
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