Cromolyn Sodium Overview

Study Notes

Mast Cell Stabilizers

Mast cells release vasoactive substances like histamine and leukotrienes, causing bronchial constriction during an asthma attack.
Cromolyn sodium serves as a prototype drug to inhibit this response.

Cromolyn Sodium: Pharmacotherapeutics

Used prophylactically for mild to moderate asthma and to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Administered as a nasal inhaler for seasonal allergic rhinitis, ophthalmic solution for allergic conjunctivitis, and orally for systemic mastocytosis and ulcerative colitis.
Off-label uses include chronic urticaria, food allergies, and eosinophilic gastroenteritis.

Cromolyn Sodium: Pharmacokinetics

Administered via inhalation or orally; mainly distributed to the lungs.
Excreted primarily in feces; approximately 98% is eliminated unchanged.
Minimal systemic absorption when used intranasally or ophthalmically; improvement seen after several weeks of use.

Cromolyn Sodium: Pharmacodynamics

Inhibits mast cell degranulation and rupture upon antigen exposure, reducing histamine and inflammatory leukotrienes release.
Exact mechanism remains unclear, but involves inhibition of calcium influx.

Cromolyn Sodium: Contraindications & Precautions

Contraindicated in hypersensitive individuals; risk of anaphylaxis.
Not for acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus; aerosol form contraindicated in coronary artery disease patients.
Caution with lactose intolerance and soft contact lens wearers; pregnancy category B.

Cromolyn Sodium: Adverse Effects

Generally well-tolerated; common side effects include bronchospasm, throat irritation, and cough upon inhalation.
Oral preparations may cause nausea and gastrointestinal symptoms in lactose intolerant individuals.
Nasal spray may induce sneezing, while ocular drops can cause irritation.

Cromolyn Sodium: Drug Interactions

No known clinically significant drug interactions with cromolyn sodium.

Cromolyn Sodium: Health Status

Evaluate for prior adverse reactions before administration and conduct a baseline physical assessment, including respiratory evaluation.

Cromolyn Sodium: Lifespan & Gender

Safe for use in both adults and children; minimal drug transfer to fetus or breast milk, but assess pregnancy or lactation status.

Cromolyn Sodium: Lifestyle, Diet, & Habits

Monitor lactose intolerant patients for adverse effects; recommend taking cromolyn sodium 15-20 minutes before exercise to prevent bronchospasm.

Description

This quiz focuses on Cromolyn Sodium, a prototype mast cell stabilizer. It covers its uses, administration methods, pharmacodynamic effects, and contraindications. Perfect for students exploring pharmacology or respiratory therapies.