Among nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used in the treatment of adult asthma, sodium cromoglycate and nedocromil sodium are the most frequently prescribed. These medications have a similar efficacy profile in asthma although it has been suggested that nedocromil is more powerful than cromoglycate, particularly in its steroid sparing effects. Both drugs have been recommended as alternatives to steroids in the treatment of mild asthma. They are useful in the prevention of bronchospasm induced by exposure to allergens or to a variety of other stimuli. In comparison with theophylline or low dose inhaled steroids, cromoglycate and nedocromil have shown a similar antiasthmatic efficacy, although this is variable among patients.
Effects of inhaled steroids on methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction and gas trapping in mild asthma
