Short- and Long-term Prophylaxis with Cromolyn Sodium in Chronic Asthma

¹ Professor of Pediatrics and Director of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Rush Medical Center
² Department of Pediatrics, Rush Medical College, Chicago

Thirty-eight children with chronic asthma (mean age 10.2 years) were given cromolyn sodium and placebo in a double-blind crossover study of eight weeks' duration. A statistically significant difference (P.005) in physician's ratings, in favor of cromolyn therapy was found for both sequences. Subsequently, cromolyn was given prophylactically for at least 12 months to 33 of these children. Compared to the previous year, improved performance in physical exercise, lessened school absenteeism, reduced hospitalizations and improved sleep patterns appeared to warrant the continued use of cromolyn. A decreased frequency of attacks in 26 of 33 and reduced need for bronchodilators in 25 of 33 children occurred as well as an improvement of peak expiratory flow rates measured during airborne pollen and mold seasons. Hepatic, hematologic and renal disturbances were not noted. There were no voluntary complaints of side-effects.

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