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The presence of pharmaceuticals in effluents, which are wastewater discharges from various sources, has emerged as a significant environmental concern in recent years. Among the various methods available to address this challenge, adsorption stands out as one of the most effective, both technically and economically. In this study, we investigate the potential of cross-linked chitosan (C-CHIT) as an adsorbent for sodium cromoglicate (CG) and sodium diclofenac (DF). Both CG and DF were found to spontaneously adsorb onto C-CHIT, a sorbent with a positively charged surface when dispersed in water (as confirmed by zeta potential measurements). The adsorption of these anionic drugs resulted in a change in the polarity of the surface charge. Thermodynamic analysis was conducted using a standard approach, wherein parameters from Redlich–Peterson and Frumkin isotherms at the low-concentration limit were utilized to calculate the enthalpy and entropy of adsorption. This analysis suggested that CG was more effectively adsorbed onto C-CHIT. Additionally, a novel approach was proposed in this study for adsorption under surface saturation conditions, which deviate from ideal solution conditions. Interestingly, thermodynamic data indicated a reversal of behavior, with DF being more effectively adsorbed by C-CHIT. This finding was supported by geometric parameters calculated using MarvinSketch 23.12, along with a more repulsive Frumkin's lateral interaction parameter for CG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the transport mechanism is crucial for developing inhibitors that block allergen absorption and transport and prevent allergic reactions. However, the process of how beta-conglycinin, the primary allergen in soybeans, crosses the intestinal mucosal barrier remains unclear. The present study indicated that the transport of beta-conglycinin hydrolysates by IPEC-J2 monolayers occurred in a time- and quantity-dependent manner. The beta-conglycinin hydrolysates were absorbed into the cytoplasm of IPEC-J2 monolayers, while none were detected in the intercellular spaces. Furthermore, inhibitors such as methyl-beta-cyclodextrin (MβCD) and chlorpromazine (CPZ) significantly suppressed the absorption and transport of beta-conglycinin hydrolysates. Of particular interest, sodium cromoglycate (SCG) exhibited a quantity-dependent nonlinear suppression model on the absorption and transport of beta-conglycinin hydrolysates. In conclusion, beta-conglycinin crossed the IPEC-J2 monolayers through a transcellular pathway, involving both clathrin-mediated and caveolae-dependent endocytosis mechanisms. SCG suppressed the absorption and transport of beta-conglycinin hydrolysates by the IPEC-J2 monolayers by a quantity-dependent nonlinear model via clathrin-mediated and caveolae-dependent endocytosis. These findings provide promising targets for both the prevention and treatment of soybean allergies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Khellin is the key furanocoumarin of Ammi visnaga L. (Lam.) that exhibits various biological properties. This unique natural product has inspired the discovery of two first-in-class drugs, amiodarone and sodium cromoglycate. A wide range of analytical methods were generated while translating khellin scaffold into clinically used drugs; however, they have never been reviewed and critically assessed. The present review aims to review and evaluate the analytical techniques for the natural products, khellin, visnagin, and their inspired drugs, amiodarone and sodium cromoglycate. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is the extensively used technique in most analytical methods reported for these compounds; however, other techniques including the fluorimetry, luminescence spectrophotometry, potentiometry, voltammetry, FT-Raman spectroscopy, and ELISA were also employed. The review will be helpful for further basic and translational research on furanochromone and related scaffolds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Mast cells are immune cells that mediate hypersensitivity and allergic reactions in the body, secreting histamine and other inflammatory molecules. They have been associated with different inflammatory conditions such as obesity and other adipose tissue disorders. Lipedema is a chronic disease characterized by an abnormal accumulation of adipose tissue on the legs and arms, pain, and other symptoms. Mast cells may play a role in the pathology of lipedema. Objective. Pilot study to determine levels of histamine and its metabolites in lipedema subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) biopsy samples, and to test sodium cromoglycate for the treatment of mast cells in women with lipedema. Methods. Biopsies from lipedema and control SAT were collected and analyzed histologically for the presence of mast cells. Mass spectrometry was used to measure the levels of histamine, a key marker of mast cells, and its metabolites in SAT in women with lipedema and controls, and after a group of women with lipedema were administered oral and topical doses of sodium cromoglycate for two weeks. Results. Histological examination of biopsies from lipedema patients confirmed the presence of mast cells. Metabolomic analysis revealed high levels of histamine and its metabolites in samples from women with lipedema compared to controls. Following a two-week treatment period, lipedema tissue samples exhibited reduced levels of histamine, suggesting a reduction of mast cell activity. Conclusion. Sodium cromoglycate has the ability to stabilize mast cells and reduce histamine levels in lipedema patients, which could be useful in lowering the symptoms of lipedema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Jilin University (Medicine Edition) is the property of Jilin University Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This article presents the results of studies of the levels of expression of the IL13R gene and the levels of expression of the molecular IL13R in the bronchi of control rats and rats with ovalbumin-induced asthma. The choice of these receptors is due to the great importance of these structures in the pathogenesis of allergic bronchial asthma. Biological materials of 64 Wistar rats were studied using real-time PCR and immunohistochemical methods. As a result of the studies, it was found that under conditions of asthma development in the tissues of the bronchi of rats, a pronounced expression of the IL13R genes, a significant expression of the molecular receptor for interleukin-13, occurs. In bronchi with an intramural ganglion (bifurcation zone), the level of IL13R gene expression and the level of expression of the IL13R molecular receptor were significantly higher than in tracheal samples without ganglia. Sodium cromoglycate, administered to rats 5 hours after the last inhalation of ovalbumin, led to a decrease in the mRNA content in the bronchi of animals compared to animals that did not receive mast cell stabilizer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium hyaluronate (SHA) is an anti-inflammatory and protective agent against bronchoconstriction, and sodium cromoglicate (SCG) prevents exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and inflammation. Based on the pharmacological properties of both substances, this study aimed to develop a dry powder inhaler (DPI) of SHA alone and in combination with SCG. The target of the study was to develop flowable formulations without any surfactants by using the spray drying method. To obtain respirable SHA and SCG:SHA particles, variables of the spray dryer, such as inlet temperature, atomized air flow, and feed solution, were changed. The particles 1–8 μm in size were produced with high yield by spray drying and increasing the ethanol percentage of the feed solution (60%), which is the most remarkable parameter. After that, physicochemical characterizations were performed. The aerosol performance of DPI formulations prepared using lactose was evaluated using Handihaler® DPI. The fine particle fraction (FPF) was 36% for the SHA formulation, whereas it was 52 and 53% for SCG and SHA, respectively, in the SCG:SHA formulation. Consequently, both particles were produced reproducibly by spray drying, and inhaled SHA and SCG:SHA dry powder formulations were developed due to their high FPF and flowability with lactose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to study the effect of gas microbubbles on the production of particles suitable for inhalatory administration by a spray drying technology. An antiasthmatic model drug (sodium cromoglycate) was selected in order to evaluate the effect of different gases (air, CO2 and N2) and spray drying operating conditions on the particles aerosolization performance. To this end, gas supersaturated aqueous drug solutions were obtained in a pressurized vessel and then processed by spray drying. The process yield, morphology, size, bulk and tap densities, moisture content and aerosolization properties of the particles were evaluated. The presence of microbubbles in the spray drying feed led to powders with smaller mean geometric sizes than particles obtained without bubbles. The gas-water solubility emerged as a key parameter to obtain inhalatory particles with good aerosolization properties. High water-soluble gases led to bigger particles, while low soluble ones allow to produce smaller particles. The use of air (with an intermediate water solubility respect to CO2 and N2) and an adequate set of spray drying operating conditions allowed to obtain sodium cromoglycate particles with superior aerosolization properties than a commercial formulation. Overall, a novel, simple and low-cost method to produce inhalatory particles with excellent aerosolization properties was developed by supersaturating the spray drying liquid feed without using pore-forming agents during the production step, or carriers in the final formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypoxia exposure often cause the increases of pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP). Studies reported that mast cells (MCs) participate in pulmonary vascular remodeling and promote the formation of chronic pulmonary hypertension. Current studies mainly focus on the change of MCs under chronic hypoxia, but few studies on the regulatory role and mechanism of MCs under acute hypoxia. Therefore, present study investigated the dynamic change of MCs in lung tissues under acute hypoxia and the role of MCs activation in the increasement of PAP. In our study, we established an experimental rat model of acute hypobaric hypoxia using a hypobaric chamber (simulated altitude of 7,000 m) and pretreated with MCs degranulation inhibitor sodium cromoglycate (SCG) to study the MCs changes under acute hypoxic exposure. We found that acute hypobaric hypoxia contributed to the increased quantity, activity, and degranulation of MCs and SCG pretreatment showed attenuated PAP elevation under acute hypoxia. Our findings implied that there is a possible mechanism of acute hypoxia cause rapid recruitment of MCs, activation, and explosive degranulation to release Tryptase, Chymase, IL-6, His, 5-HT, and Ang II, which further contributed to pulmonary microvascular contraction and increase in PAP. This work extends the knowledge about MCs, providing a potential profile of MCs as an alternative treatment for high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE)-related increased pulmonary artery pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Latinoamericana de Hipertension is the property of Revista Latinoamericana de Hipertension and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Fluorometholone (FLM) and Sodium Cromoglycate (CMG) are co-formulated in ophthalmic preparation and showed marked instability under different conditions. Two specific, sensitive and precise stability-indicating chromatographic methods have been developed and validated for their determination in the presence of their degradation products and FLM impurity. Ten components were efficiently separated by them. The first method was HPTLC-spectrodensitometry, where the separation was achieved using silica gel 60 F254 HPTLC plates and developing system of ethyl acetate: methanol (9:1, v/v). The second method was a reversed phase HPLC associated with kinetic study of the degradation process and was successfully applied for determination of the studied compounds in spiked rabbit aqueous humor. The mobile phase was acetonitrile: methanol: 0.05 M potassium dihydrogenphosphate (0.1% trimethylamine); pH 2.5, adjusted with orthophosphoric acid (20: 30: 50, by volume). In both methods, the separated components were detected at 240 nm and system suitability was checked. Good correlation was obtained in the range of 0.10-24.00 and 0.20-48.00 µg band−1, for FLM and CMG by HPTLC. While for HPLC, the linearity ranges from 0.01-50.00 and 0.05-50.00 µg mL−1 for both drugs. The methods were applied in pharmaceutical formulation, where they were compared to the reported method with no significant difference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed to investigate the role of mast cells and mast cell-derived histamine in vincristine-induced neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain was induced by administration of vincristine (100 μg/kg, i.p.) over a period of 10 days, with a break of 2 days, and pain behavioural estimations including pin prick, hot plate and acetone spray tests were performed to assess mechanical and heat hyperalgesia and cold allodynia, respectively, on days 0, 14 and 28. Mast cell stabilizer, sodium cromoglycate, H receptor antagonist promethazine and H receptor antagonist ranitidine were administered over a period of 12 days. Administration of vincristine resulted in significant development of heat and mechanical hyperalgesia as well as cold allodynia. Furthermore, the pain observed was markedly elevated on the 28th day in comparison to the 14th day. Administration of sodium cromoglycate, promethazine and ranitidine significantly reduced mechanical and heat hyperalgesia and cold allodynia. However, the pain-attenuating effects of ranitidine were significantly less as compared to sodium cromoglycate and promethazine, which suggests that H receptors play a more important role than H receptors in vincristine-induced neuropathic pain. It may be concluded that vincristine may degranulate mast cells to release inflammatory mediators, particularly histamine which may act through H (primarily H) and H receptors to induce neuropathic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mast cells are immunological cells that are diversely distributed in different parts of the body. Their role in various pathological conditions such as hypersensitivity, atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and male infertility has been reported by different scientists. Apart from these, a number of studies have shown their important role in pathogenesis of neuropathic pain of diverse aetiology. They have been found to release active mediators, primarily histamine and serotonin on degranulation in response to different stimuli including chemical, nerve damage, toxin or disease-related conditions. The mast cells stabilizer has shown pain attenuating effects by preventing degranulation of mast cells. Similarly, compound 48/80 (first dose 200 μg/100 g and after 6-h interval, second dose of 500 μg/100 g) caused the degranulation of the accumulated endoneurial histamine and 5-HT antagonists have shown pain relieving effects by attenuating the effects of histamine and serotonin, respectively. On the other hand, the mast cell degranulator compound 48/80 has shown dual action depending on its time of administration. The present review discusses the critical role of mast cells in the generation and maintenance of neuropathic pain in experimental models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium cromoglycate (SC) is an antiasthmatic and antiallergenic drug commonly used for chronic inhalation therapy; however, many daily intakes are required due to the fast drug clearance from airways. For these reasons, SC polymeric particles for inhalatory administration with adequate aerosolization and mucoadhesive properties were designed to prolong the drug residence time in the site of action. Sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMCNa), sodium hyaluronate, and sodium alginate were selected to co-process SC by spray drying. The influence of these polysaccharides on the spray drying process and powder quality was evaluated (among others, morphology, size, moisture content, hygroscopicity, flowability, densities, liquid sorption, and stability). In vitro aerosolization, drug release, and mucoadhesion performance were also studied. Particularly, a novel method to comparatively evaluate the interaction between formulations and mucin solution (mucoadhesion test) was proposed as a rapid methodology to measure adhesion properties of inhalable particles, being the results as indicative of clearance probability. Among all the studied formulations, the powder based on SC and CMCNa exhibited the best mucoadhesion and aerosolization performance, the highest process yield and adequate moisture content, hygroscopicity, and stability. SC-CMCNa formulation arose as a promising inhalatory system to reduce the daily intakes and to increase the patient compliance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To identify the protective role of sodium cromoglycate in mice during influenza virus infection. Design H5N1 virus-infected mice were treated with the mast cell stabilizer sodiumcromoglycate (SCG) to investigate its therapeutic effect. Sample The nose, trachea and lungs from mice were collected. Main outcome measures Virus replication and host responses were determined by plaque assay, quantitative PCR, immunohistochemistry, and histology. Results SCG-treated mice survived better than did PBS-treated mice after H5N1 virus infection. Mild pathological changes with fewer inflammatory cell infiltration and fewer virus antigens were observed in the nose, trachea, and lungs of SCG-treated mice on days 3 and 5 post-infection. However, no significant changes in viral load in the lungs were detected between SCG- and PBS-treated mice. Furthermore, significantly decreased expression of interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-a, Toll-like receptor 3, and TIR-domaincontaining adapter-inducing interferon-b was detected in the lungs of SCG-treated mice, and no higher expression of interferon-c was detected. Conclusion These results suggest that SCG has therapeutic roles in H5N1 virus-infected mice by alleviating the inflammatory response rather than inhibition of viral replication in the lungs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sensitive and simple analytical strategy for the detection of sodium cromoglycate (SCG) has been established based on a readily detectable fluorescence quenching effect of SCG for glutathione-capped (GSH-capped) CdTe quantum dots (QDs). The fluorescence of GSH-capped CdTe QDs could be efficiently quenched by SCG through electron transfer from GSH-capped CdTe QDs to SCG. Under optimum conditions, the response was linearly proportional to the concentration of SCG between 0.6419 and 100 µg/mL, with a correlation coefficient ( R) of 0.9964; the detection limit (3δ/K) was 0.1926 µg/mL. The optimum conditions and the influence of coexisting foreign substances on the reaction were also investigated. The very effective and simple method reported here has been successfully applied to the determination of SCG in synthetic and real samples. It is believed that the established approach could have good prospects for application in the fields of clinical diseases diagnosis and treatment. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the concentration - in-vitro release relationship for topical semisolid formulations of sodium cromoglycate. Materials / Methods. According to usual pharmaceutical compounding practice, commercially available cosmetic emulsions were used as vehicles for topical semisolid dosage forms containing 0.5, 2, 4 and 10% disodium cromoglycate (CS). The in-vitro release profiles and structural parameters of the resulting formulations was evaluated in a correlated manner, in order to reveal potential differences in the in-vivo performance. Results. Depending on the hydro-lipophilic characteristics of the vehicle and on the quantity of drug dissolved or dispersed, the structure and the release kinetics are distinct. Conclusions. The results suggested that current lack of an unitary approach for the compounding of semisolid dosage forms of CS, resulting from the lack of widely available, standardized dosage form could be a reasonable explanation for the apparent discrepancy in the reports of clinical outcome after topical administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aspirin (ASP)-facilitated absorption of ingested allergens is considered an exacerbating factor in the development of food allergy. Sodium cromoglycate (SCG) is used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis with food allergy, but the efficacy of SCG in ASP-exacerbated food-allergy reactions is unclear. In this study, we evaluated the effect of SCG on ASP-exacerbated food-allergic reactions, as well as allergen absorption, in egg-allergic model rats. Methods: Plasma concentrations of ovalbumin (OVA) and fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled dextran (FD-40), a marker for nonspecific-absorption pathways, were measured after oral administration of mixtures of OVA and FD-40 in OVA-unsensitized and OVA-sensitized rats. IgE-mediated allergic reactions were evaluated by measuring changes in rectal temperature and Evans blue dye (EBD) extravasation in the intestine and liver after oral challenge with OVA. The effects of ASP and SCG on such absorption and allergic reactions were also evaluated kinetically. Results: In OVA-sensitized rats, plasma concentrations of OVA and FD-40 were significantly higher than those in unsensitized rats after oral administration. ASP increased the intestinal absorption of OVA and FD-40 via the paracellular pathway, and a lower rectal temperature and higher EBD extravasation were detected in the intestine and liver of OVA-sensitized rats. SCG ameliorated these ASP-facilitated absorptions and allergic reactions in a dose-dependent manner. In particular, high-dose SCG (195.2 μmol/kg) completely inhibited these absorptions and reactions. Conclusion: SCG can prevent ASP-exacerbated allergic reactions in patients with food allergy resulting from inhibition of increases in allergen absorption. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Turkish Archives of Otolaryngology / Türk Otolarengoloji Arsivi is the property of Turkish Otorhinolaryngology & Head & Neck Surgery Foundation and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Despite international consensus and clearly written guidelines urging wider use of corticosteroids or combinations of inhaled short- and long-acting β-agonists (SABA and LABA) and corticosteroids in persistent asthma, prescribing patterns and compliance rates fall far short of recommendations. Objectives: The failure to use steroids more aggressively is due, in part, to their side effects, even with inhaled forms of the drug. There is a role for expanded use of sodium cromolyn in asthma. Its potent anti-inflammatory effects, lack of side effects, and acceptable dosing and method of delivery, as well as its special role in exercise-induced asthma, make it a very suitable choice in the initial therapy for control of asthma. Conclusion: Compared to SABA and LABA, cromoglycates alone are unsuspicious of being used to enhance physical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry powder mannitol has the potential to be used to enhance clearance of mucus in subjects with bronchiectasis. A reduction in FEV has been recorded in some subjects with bronchiectasis after inhaling mannitol. The aim of this study was to investigate if pre-medicating with either sodium cromoglycate (SCG) or eformoterol could inhibit this reduction in FEV. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized cross-over study was conducted. Lung function and airway response to mannitol was assessed on a control day and then re-assessed after pre-medication with placebo, SCG and eformoterol in nine subjects. Sensitivity to mannitol, expressed as the dose required to induce a 15% fall in FEV (PD), and reactivity to mannitol, expressed as the % fall in FEV per mg of mannitol (response-dose ratio, RDR), are reported. Subjects had an FEV of 68 ± 14% predicted, FVC of 97 ± 15% predicted and FEV/FVC of 71 ± 8%. They were mildly hypoxemic and the SpO was 95 ± 2%.They had a PD to mannitol of 235 mg (95% CI: 150-368 mg) and a RDR of 0.057% fall in FEV per mg (95% CI: 0.038-0.085). After pre-medication with SCG, PD increased (773 mg, P < 0.05) and RDR was reduced (0.013, P < 0.05). Pre-medication with eformoterol also resulted in an increased PD (1141 mg, P < 0.01) and a reduced RDR (0.009, P < 0.01). A small but significant decrease in SpO from baseline was noted after mannitol in the presence of SCG ( P < 0.05). Pre-medication with either SCG or eformoterol protects patients with bronchiectasis from developing a significant reduction in FEV after inhaling mannitol. A reduction in FEV is recorded in a significant minority of patients with bronchiectasis following inhalation of mannitol. This study reports that pre-medication with a standard dose of either sodium cromoglycate or eformoterol can protect this patient group from developing mannitol induced bronchospasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To study the ulcer protective property of sodium cromoglycate in pylorus-ligated rats and the biochemical role in ulcer protection by various biochemical tests. Materials and Methods: The ulcer protective effect of sodium cromoglycate was studied using a Pyloric Ligation Model using Wistar albino rats. The antiulcer effect of sodium cromoglycate 40 mg/kg b.w., i.p., was compared with the reference drug ranitidine 27 mg/kg b.w., i.p. The ulcer index was calculated and other biochemical parameters like free acidity, total acidity, pH, mucin, pepsin and volume of gastric juice were determined. Results: Pylorus ligation showed a significant (P < 0.01) reduction in gastric volume, free acidity, total acidity and ulcer index as compared to the control. Conclusion: Sodium cromoglycate has activity equipotent to ranitidine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Mannitol, inhaled as a dry powder, is used for bronchial provocation to identify bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Bronchoconstriction is associated with an increase in urinary excretion of the metabolites of prostaglandin D2 and leukotriene E4. Sodium cromoglycate provides about 60% protection against the fall in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) provoked by inhaled mannitol and appears to do so by inhibiting the release of prostaglandin D2 but not leukotriene E4.The leukotriene receptor antagonist montelukast does not alter sensitivity to mannitol, as measured by the provoking dose to cause a 15% fall in FEV1 to mannitol, but it significantly enhances recovery from the bronchoconstriction provoked by mannitol. Objective. The authors proposed that the combination of these two drugs would be superior to sodium cromoglycate alone and result in greater protection from the bronchoconstriction provoked by mannitol. Methods. The % fall in FEV1 from baseline and the area under the 30-min FEV1 time curve and time to recover to 95% baseline FEV1 were used to express protection from 40 mg sodium cromoglycate alone, and in combination with 10 mg montelukast, in subjects with asthma. Mannitol was inhaled in the dose that caused a 20% fall in FEV1 on the screening day. The prechallenge medications were randomised on the 3 treatment days and were (1) placebo sodium cromoglycate and placebo montelukast; (2) sodium cromoglycate and placebo montelukast; and (3) sodium cromoglycate and montelukast. Results. The protection by sodium cromoglycate alone on the % fall in FEV1 was 64.4% ± 21.0% versus 65.8% ± 62.8% ( p = NS) on the combination. The protection on the area under the 30-min FEV1 time curve for sodium cromoglycate was 81.8% ± 14.0% ( p <.04) and 89.3% ± 9.8% for the combination ( p <.001) compared with placebo. Recovery to 95% baseline FEV1 by 5/10 min occurred in 58%/66% of subjects on sodium cromoglycate and 66%/83% on the combination compared with 0%/0% on placebo. Conclusion. The addition of montelukast to sodium cromoglycate provided only a small additional benefit against the airway response to mannitol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis (FDEIA) was prevented from recurring in 2 children by sodium cromoglycate (SCG) before intake of the causative food. Case 1: A 14-year-old girl who had suffered recurrent symptoms of anaphylaxis when she exercised after lunch. Radioallergosorbent test (RAST) was 1.49 UA/mL for wheat. She was advised to take SCG before lunch. In 2007, she ate bread at lunchtime without taking SCG and developed anaphylaxis. After this, she always took SCG and did not develop anaphylaxis. Case 2: A 9-yearold boy who had recurrent symptoms of anaphylaxis when he exercised after lunch. RAST was 0.46 UA/mL for wheat. He started taking SCG before lunch. In June 2008, he forgot to take SCG and ate fu (a food made from wheat). He exercised after lunch and developed anaphylaxis. Since then, he has always taken SCG and has not developed anaphylaxis. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that SCG prevents FDEIA caused by wheat allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of the present study is to undertake a survey of childhood asthma and details of the use of inhaled therapy from mothers with asthmatic children ≤15 years old, using the Internet. Methods: This study was done on a nationwide scale in Japan during the latter half of July 2001. Results: Responses were obtained from 748 mothers. Four hundred and three children (53.9%) had been diagnosed with asthma when ≤2 years old and 263 children (35.2%) when 2–5 years old. Three hundred and ninety-seven children (53.1%) were in remission or had mild asthma, 295 children (39.4%) had moderate asthma, and 56 (7.5%) had severe asthma. Of 563 children who required some pharmacological treatment, 266 used inhaled therapy. One hundred and forty-four children used metered-dose inhaler (MDI), 136 used powered nebulizer, and 34 used dry powder inhaler (DPI). Of children treated with inhaled sodium cromoglycate, 63 used MDI, 129 used nebulizer solution and 23 used DPI. Of children treated with inhaled corticosteroids, 43 used MDI and six used DPI. Of children using powered nebulizer, 48 were well satisfied and 76 were slightly satisfied. More than 90% of mothers commented that this form of treatment improved the quality of life both of the asthmatic children and of the family. Conclusion: Internet survey of childhood asthma is effective, and powered nebulizer therapy may be encouraged more acceptable by infants and young children in the treatment of asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study has been designed to pharmacologically investigate the role of mast cell degranulation in ischemic preconditioning-induced reversal of global ischemia- and reperfusion-induced cerebral injury in mice. Bilateral carotid artery occlusion of 17 min followed by reperfusion for 24 h was employed in present study to produce ischemia- and reperfusion-induced cerebral injury in mice. Cerebral infarct size was measured using triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. Memory was evaluated using Morris water-maze test. Rota-rod test was employed to assess motor incoordination. Bilateral carotid artery occlusion followed by reperfusion produced cerebral infarction and impaired memory and motor coordination. Three preceding episodes of bilateral carotid artery occlusion for 1 min and reperfusion of 1 min (ischemic preconditioning) prevented markedly ischemia–reperfusion-induced cerebral injury measured in terms of infarct size, loss of memory and motor coordination. Sodium cromoglycate (10 mg/kg, i.p.), a mast cell stabilizer attenuated the neuroprotective effect of ischemic preconditioning. It is concluded that neuroprotective effect of ischemic preconditioning may be due to the degranulation of mast cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International and Japanese guidelines classify childhood asthma as mild, moderate, or severe, and recommend treatment with “as needed” bronchodilators, inhaled sodium cromoglycate, and inhaled corticosteroids, respectively. Alternatively, some investigators proposed inhaled corticosteroids as first-line therapy to prevent airway inflammatory obstruction. This article describes a clinical study assessing the effect of early intervention with inhaled sodium cromoglycate in childhood asthma. This was a retrospective study of 189 asthmatic children treated with inhaled sodium cromoglycate for five years and whose age of onset of asthma was six year of age or younger. An end-of-study questionnaire completed the examination. Children administered oral or inhaled corticosteroids simultaneously with sodium cromoglycate, were excluded. Asthma scores as defined by the Japanese Pediatric Allergic Committee, were reduced continuously during the five years after the start of sodium cromoglycate treatment. The frequency of emergency department visits and hospitalizations also decreased. Significant between-period intervention differences showed improvement of clinical outcomes for children with severe asthma during the five years of sodium cromoglycate inhalation. The early intervention regime of starting sodium cromoglycate inhalation within two years of the onset of asthma shows a large improvement in the long-term prognosis of childhood asthma, especially for children with severe asthma. It is possible that starting inhaled sodium cromoglycate earlier than the present recommendation of corticosteroids could further improve clinical outcomes, but a prospective study should be performed to verify our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In order to affect the natural course of childhood wheezing and asthma, anti-inflammatory therapy is often prescribed for young wheezing children, but there is lack of long-term follow-up data. Methods: Eighty-two of the original 100 children, hospitalized for wheezing under the age of 2 years in 1992–1993, were re-examined at school age in 1999. The children had participated in an open, randomized, parallel-group trial including a 4-month intervention with inhaled sodium cromoglycate (SCG) or budesonide (BUD). The baseline data, including data on atopy, eosinophilia and viral etiology, were prospectively collected on admission. Results: At early school age (median 7.2 years), asthma was present in 33 (40%) children. There was less asthma in the original SCG (21%) than in the control group (54%) (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.07–0.77). The figure was 46% in the BUD group. When the analyses were performed separately for atopic and non-atopic infants, the difference was significant only among atopics. The lowered risk for asthma in the SCG group remained significant in the multivariate logistic regression analysis when adjusted for age, sex and atopy, and further when adjusted for earlier episodes of wheezing and respiratory syncytial virus identification. However, after adjustment for blood eosinophilia, the significance was lost, albeit the risk for asthma remained low (OR 0.21; 95% CI 0.04–1.12). A sensitivity analysis, which was done by including the six drop-outs of the SCG group as unfavorable and the 12 drop-outs of other groups as favorable outcomes in the model, did not change the direction of the result (OR 0.70; 95% CI 0.26–1.89). Conclusions: An early SCG intervention in infants hospitalized for wheezing was associated with a lowered risk for early school-age asthma, especially in infants with evidence of atopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disturbances of gastric motor, secretory and/or sensory functions are frequently associated with gastritis. The aim of this study was to characterize motor and secretory alterations associated to chemically-induced gastritis in mice. Mild gastritis was induced with 0.1% iodoacetamide administered intragastrically and added to the drinking water for a 6 days period. A significant loss of body weight and a reduction in food and water intake was observed in iodoacetamide-treated animals compared with those receiving vehicle. At the end of the treatment period, no macroscopic alterations were observed in the gastric mucosa of iodoacetamide-treated mice. However, histological sections revealed a mixed inflammatory infiltrate, with a predominance of mast cells in the submucosa; suggesting a mild gastritis. Gastric emptying rate of a nutrient solid meal was not modified in mice with gastritis compared with normal controls. In animals with gastritis, basal gastric acid secretion was increased compared with normal controls. Basal gastric acid secretion was not modified by either indomethacin or compound 48/80. Secretory response to secretagogues (pentagastrin and histamine) was enhanced during gastritis. Hypersecretory responses to both gastrin and histamine in iodoacetamide-treated mice were blocked by the mast cell stabilizer sodium cromoglycate, and enhanced by indomethacin, without affecting the secretory response in normal mice. These results suggest that mild gastritis alters gastric acid secretory responses through a mechanism related, at least partially, to mast cells activation. Moreover, prostaglandins also modulate secretory responses during mild inflammation. This animal model of gastritis might be useful to characterize pathophysiological changes and potential therapeutic targets in secretory-related gastric pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to formulate nanoparticles from poly(I)lactide by a modified nanoprecipitation method. The main focus was to study the effect of cosolvent selection on the shape, size, formation efficiency, degree of crystallinity, x-ray diffraction (XRD) reflection pattern, and zeta potential value of the particles. Low-molecular-weight (2000 g/mol) poly(I)lactide was used as a polymer, and sodium cromoglycate was used as a drug. Acetone, ethanol, and methanol were selected as cosolvents. Optimal nanoparticles were achieved with ethanol as a cosolvent, and the formation efficiency of the particles was also higher with ethanol as compared with acetone or methanol. The particles formulated by ethanol and acetone appeared round and smooth, while with methanol they were slightly angular. When the volume of the inner phase was decreased during the nanoprecipitation process, the mean particle size was also decreased with all the solvents, but the particles were more prone to aggregate. The XRD reflection pattern and the degree of crystallinity were more dependent were more prone to aggregate. The XRD reflection pattern and the degree of crystallinity were more dependent on the amount of the solvents in the inner phase than on the properties of the individual cosolvents. The zeta potential values of all the particle batches were slightly negative, which partially explains the increased tendency toward particle aggregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this multi-centre prospective study was to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of the combination of sodium cromoglycate (SCG) and salbutamol (administered as a nebulized solution), compared to SCG alone and salbutamol alone, in the management of severe, intractable asthma in childhood. The study was an open, randomized, cross-over trial of 12 weeks' duration in children with moderate-to-severe intractable asthma. All treatments were administered twice daily by powered nebulizer. The primary outcome measure was the change in asthma severity, as measured by the mean asthma score during the last 2 weeks of a baseline period and the last 2 weeks of each treatment. Secondary outcome measure was the patient's opinion of the effectiveness of treatment. The change in asthma scores from baseline values were significantly greater with the combination treatment compared to each component administered separately. The mean difference in asthma score between the combination and salbutamol was: -7.5; 95% CI, -11.70 to -3.29 (p < 0.0001). The mean difference between the combination and SCG was: -8.53; 95% CI, -14.03 to -3.25 (p < 0.0001). Patients were also significantly in favor of combination treatment (p < 0.001 vs. salbutamol; p < 0.01 vs. SCG). Two patients reported adverse effects. We concluded that regular twice-daily inhalation of a combination of SCG and salbutamol gave better control of symptoms than previous treatments in patients with severe, intractable asthma. Few adverse effects with this therapy suggest that it is extremely useful, safe, and effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundInhalation of organic dust from a pig house induces airway inflammation and increases bronchial responsiveness to methacholine in healthy subjects. ObjectiveTo study whether sodium cromoglycate influences the airway inflammatory reaction and the increase in airway responsiveness induced by inhalation of organic dust. MethodsBronchoalveolar and nasal lavages, and bronchial methacholine challanges were performed and blood samples were drawn in 32 healthy subjects before and after exposure to dust in a pig farm. Sodium cromoglycate was inhaled (20 mg, twice a day) and administered intranasally (5.2 mg, twice a day) by 16 and a corresponding placebo was given to the other 16 healthy controls for two weeks prior to exposure. ResultsExposure induced a significant increase in inflammatory cells and soluble components (pro-inflammatory cytokines, inflammatory mediators) in bronchoalveolar and nasal lavage fluid in both groups. The increase in neutrophils, interleukin (IL)-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α as well as myeloperoxidase and soluble intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid was significantly reduced by treatment with sodium cromoglycate. Although sodium cromoglycate inhalation largely influenced a variety of inflammatory indices in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid it had no effect on the increase in bronchial responsiveness to methacholine. ConclusionSodium cromoglycate alters the airway inflammatory response to inhaled organic dust without influencing the dust-induced increase in bronchial responsiveness to methacholine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a severe though transient form of ocular allergy, predominant in young males, which requires careful management. Corticosteroids are effective but also cause serious topical side-effects in the eye, such as glaucoma and cataracts. The safer, mast cell stabilizing anti-inflammatories (commonly sodium cromoglycate) therefore have an important role. This parallel group study compared efficacy, tolerability and safety of sodium cromoglycate 2% with nedocromil sodium 2%, administered as one drop per eye four times daily for a period of 5 months. Methods Children aged 4–17 years, with a diagnosis of mostly limbal VKC in the last 12 months, entered a 2-week baseline during which they used only artificial tears, and were then randomized to treatment, in groups of 18, on an investigator single-masked basis. Daily symptom diary cards were kept by patients/guardians, and VKC was assessed by the clinician at approximately monthly intervals. Dexamethasone was provided for rescue control of severe symptoms, if needed. Results A total of 34 patients completed the study.Both trial treatments produced rapid improvements and many ocular signs and symptoms, including Trantas' dots, chemosis, itching, soreness and sticky discharge, were fully controlled by the end of the study. However, nedocromil sodium took effect more quickly, with a significant reduction compared to sodium cromoglycate for itching, grittiness, hyperaemia and keratitis within 6 weeks. In addition, nedocromil sodium was the more efficacious overall (significant vs sodium cromoglycate for hyperaemia, keratitis, papillae and pannus at 22 weeks). Both treatments were well tolerated and without serious adverse effects. Final opinions favoured nedocromil sodium, with full control of VKC recorded for 94% (patient opinion) and 100% (clinician opinion) of this treatment group, compared with 29% and 0%, respectively, in the sodium cromoglycate group. Conclusions... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of sodium cromoglycate (CRO) were studied in relation to the metabolism of brain catecholamines: dopamine (DA) and noradrenaline (NA), and their metabolites 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid (HVA) and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenylethyleneglycol (MHPG). CRO was injected SC in control mice, morphine-tolerant mice (tolerance was induced by SC implantation of a 75 mg morphine pellet; CRO was administered on day 4 of addiction) and 30 min before abstinence (withdrawal was induced by SC injection of naloxone (1 mg/kg) on day 4 of addiction). Brain catecholamines and their metabolites were measured using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD), for DA, NA, DOPAC and HVA, and coupled with fluorescence detection for MHPG. The ratios of DOPAC + HVA/DA and MHPG/NA were kept as an index of DA and NA turnovers, respectively. CRO administered 30 min before naloxone-precipitated withdrawal diminished significantly NA levels in frontal cortex. CRO increased DA turnover in striatum and frontal cortex in naive animals and significantly diminished DA levels in frontal cortex and DOPAC levels in frontal cortex and midbrain in morphine-dependent mice. These findings are discussed in relation to the protective effects of CRO on opiate withdrawal and the effects of CRO on locomotor activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to explain the action of sodium cromoglycate (CRO) on the brain serotonergic system in control, morphine tolerant (by SC implantation of a 75 mg morphine pellet), and also in morphine dependent mice just before naloxone-precipitated withdrawal. After SC injections of CRO in control mice, morphine tolerant mice (day 4 of addiction), and 1 h before abstinence (withdrawal was induced by SC injection of 1 mg/kg naloxone on day 4 of addiction), animals were decapitated and various brain areas were rapidly removed. 5HT (Serotonin) and 5HIAA (5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid) were measured by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrochemical detection (HPLC-ECD). The ratio 5HIAA/5HT provided one index by which the turnover of the indoleamine was measured. CRO increased the turnover of 5HT in most of the brain areas studied in both control and morphine dependent mice. Furthermore, previous administration of CRO prior to naloxone challenge induced a significant increase in the 5HIAA/5HT ratio in the hypothalamus and striatum. These results are discussed as the reason for the preventive effect of CRO on jumping behaviour in morphine abstinent mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of sodium cromoglycate (CRO) on analgesia, locomotor activity and morphine withdrawal in mice was studied in morphine-dependent and drugnaive mice. CRO (0.5, 1, 5, 10, 30, 50 and 100 mg/kg, SC) induces analgesia (hot plate), an effect blocked by previous administration of the opiate antagonist naloxone (1 mg/kg). Furthermore, CRO (30 mg/kg) potentiates morphine analgesia. In morphine-tolerant mice, moderate doses of CRO (0.5, 1, 5, 10 and 30 mg/kg) do not induce analgesia, which suggested the development of cross tolerance between CRO and morphine, whereas coadministration of CRO and morphine in morphine tolerant animals restored the sensitivity to morphine. Administration of CRO (10 and 30 mg/kg) induces an increase in spontaneous locomotor activity, and previous administration of naloxone (1 mg/kg) blocks this effect, whereas CRO (10 mg/kg) blocks morphine (10 mg/kg) and amphetamine (3 mg/kg)-induced hyperactivity. CRO (10, 50 and 100 mg/kg) induces a significant and dose-dependent reduction in the number of jumps ('jumping up') during naloxone (1 mg/kg)-induced withdrawal in morphine-dependent mice. Finally, CRO (100 mg/kg) reduces the 'wet dog shake' phenomenom during naloxone-induced withdrawal in morphine-dependent mice. These results suggest a possible stabilizing effect of CRO on the membranes of neurones that mediate analgesia, locomotor activity and opiate abstinence. Changes and inhibition of DA, NA and 5-HT release may also explain these effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pharmacokinetics of pulmonary-administered sodium cromoglycate (SCG) has been studied in five healthy volunteers. SCG, 20 mg, was inhaled as a solution and encapsulated in dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine/cholesterol (1:1) liposomes. Liposomal SCG produced detectable drug levels in plasma from four volunteers taken 24 and 25 hr after inhalation. Inhaled SCG solution, although producing peak plasma levels more than sevenfold greater than liposomal drug, was not detectable in 24-hr samples from any volunteer. The decline in plasma levels following inhalation of liposomal SCG (reflecting the absorption phase) was best described by a biexponential equation. The two absorption rate constants differed by more than an order of magnitude. The rapid absorption phase was probably due to free or surface-adsorbed SCG in the liposomal formulation, since the absorption rate constant for this phase did not differ significantly from the absorption rate constant for SCG in solution. The phase of slow drug absorption may then be attributed to absorption of drug released from vesicles. The data indicate that encapsulation of SCG prior to pulmonary administration prolonged drug retention within the lungs and altered its pharmacokinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a multicenter, double-blind, single-dummy, group-comparative study, 169 patients received ophthalmic sodium cromoglycate 2% four times daily, and 170 patients received 4% ophthalmic sodium cromoglycate twice daily, together with placebo eye-drops twice daily, for the treatment of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) to birch pollen. The treatment period was 4 weeks during the birch pollen season. Daily pollen counts were used to identify the peak 14-d period. Clinical examinations were made before the start of treatment, after 1 week of treatment, and at the end of the treatment period. Patients kept daily diary record cards of eye symptom severity and concomitant therapy. Symptoms were generally mild and, except for chemosis (week 4) and soreness (weeks 2 and 3), which were less in the 4% group (P≤ = 0.05), no significant treatment differences were seen for symptoms or for antihistamine rescue therapy. Both treatments were considered to be very or moderately effective by more than 90% of patients, and no treatment differences occurred in either clinicians' or patients' opinions of efficacy. The results indicate that the use of 4% sodium cromoglycate eye-drops twice daily is as effective and well tolerated as 2% sodium cromoglycate four times daily in the treatment of birch-pollen conjunctivitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

lgE levels in faecal extracts (Copro-IgE levels) were investigated in food allergy (FA) patients before and after the challenge test administration of food allergens IgE levels were measured by time-resolved fluoroimmunometric assay. In addition, the effects of administration of oral sodium crornoglycate (SCG) on the Copro-IgE levels were studied Copro-IgE levels in patients with FA, who were placed on an elimination diet, did not differ from those of healthy children After a challenge test immediate symptoms of urticaria and wheezing were observed in all FA patients Copro-IgE levels in each patient increased markedly within 24 h of the challenge test Moreover, FA patients heated orally with SCG showed neither the increase in Copro-IgE levels nor any remarkable symptoms after the challenge. Our results suggest that the increased Copro-IgE levels may be a specific consequence of the local immune response to food allergen stimulation in the gut mucosa [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two patients suffering from eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EG) were treated with sodium cromoglycate (SCG). Before treatment they showed enteric and cutaneous symptoms, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and recurrent urticaria and angioedema. The histological findings were a notable amount of eosinophilic infiltration in the lamina propria and gastric glands, a villous shortening and thickening and weak eosinophilic inflammation in the duodenum. The patients were treated with 300 mg SCG, 4 times daily, for ⅘ months. During treatment, the clinical symptoms disappeared and at the end of treatment a reduced inflammation with an almost complete decrease of eosinophilic infiltration was observed. The results provide evidence of SCG efficacy in the treatment of EG and suggest its employment as an alternative to the steroids commonly used in EG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Levocabastine is a new H1 receptor blocking antihistamine which is intended for topical use in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. The protective effect of the drug in conjunctival provocation test (CPT) was evaluated in a double blind study of 25 children aged 9–17 years with confirmed pollen allergy. One drop of levocabastine, cromoglycate or placebo was instilled into the conjunctival sac of both eyes. After 15 min CPT was performed, starting with 320 BU of pollen extract. The allergen dose was increased every 10 min in half 10-log steps in the right eye until a positive reaction occurred, or the top dose 320,000 BU was reached. The lowest dose resulting in a positive CPT reaction, i.e. at least 50% of the conjunctiva with erythema, was defined as the allergenic threshold dose (ATD). Pretreatment with levocabastine resulted in a median ATD of 32,000 BU, compared with 10,000 after cromoglycate (P < 0.001) or placebo (P < 0.01). Levocabastine was also superior in reducing subjective itch in the eyes. Determination of the ATD can be used as a relatively quick assessment of drugs intended for the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to assess whether sodium cromoglycate (SCG) was an effective prophylaxis against both upper and lower respiratory tract signs and to determine factors which affected the site and magnitude of the response to SCG. Sixteen children born prematurely were entered into a randomised placebo-controlled trial at 15 months of age (range 4-31 months). The patients received, in random order, either 3 weeks' treatment with SCG (5 mg) or placebo, both given four times a day by inhalation via a spacer device. Parents were asked to record the occurrence and severity of their child's upper respiratory tract signs; sneezing and runny nose and lower respiratory tract signs; day and night time cough and wheeze. During the active compared to the placebo period there was an overall reduction of 47% and 53% in upper and lower respiratory tract signs, respectively. The magnitude of response to SCG as assessed by either the change in upper or lower respiratory tract signs was not significantly related to the patient's gestational or postnatal age, the occurrence of neonatal chronic lung disease, family history of atopy or the order in which the therapy was administered. We conclude that inhaled SCG may be a useful prophylaxis for both upper and lower respiratory tract signs for children born prematurely and less than 3 years of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fifteen children with exercise-induced asthma (EIA) participated in a double-blind trial comparing the protective effects of inhaled sodium cromoglycate (20 mg/2 ml), ipratropium bromide (500 micrograms/2 ml) and verapamil (5 mg/2 ml). Saline was used as control. There was no significant difference in base line pulmonary function before and after the administration of each agent. After exercise the maximal percentage fall in the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV-1) (means and SD) were 40.9 +/- 17.2 after inhalation of saline, 15.3 +/- 11.7 after sodium cromoglycate, 36.2 +/- 21.4 after verapamil and 21.7 +/- 17.7 after ipratropium bromide. The inhibitory effects of sodium cromoglycate and ipratropium bromide were significant whereas verapamil failed to produce any effect. To see if a double dose of verapamil is more effective, nine different children with EIA were provoked by the same standardized treadmill running after giving a placebo (4 ml saline) and after verapamil (10 mg in 4 ml). Despite the double dose, again verapamil was ineffective even though the protection index doubled that obtained with the lower dose. The results suggest that the calcium antagonist (verapamil) had almost no effect on the prevention of EIA in the children studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TNF-α is a cytokine thought to he involved in the pathogenesis of asthma and in several other inflammatory conditions. Given recent evidence that mast cells (MC) are an important source of TNF-α, we investigated the effects of two anti-inflammatory drugs, nedocromil sodium (NED) and sodium cromoglycate (SCG), on rat MC-derived TNF-α. We established that at least 2h pretreatment with NED or SCG followed by washing was required to inhibit TNF-α-dependent cytotoxicity by rat peritoneal MC (PMC). A maximum inhibition of TNF-α occurred after 6h treatment. The inhibitory effect of NED and SCG (10-5-10-3 M) was concentration-dependent (20-37% For NED and 16-37% for SCG). The time-course analysis and the use of cycloheximide, an inhibitor of protein synthesis, provided strong evidence that new protein synthesis by the MC is required for this inhibitory effect. Furthermore, 24h treatment with 1 mM NED inhibited the levels of mRNA for TNF-α by 59-83%. in addition to the effect on TNF-α-dependent cytotoxicity by MC.20 mm pretreatment with 10-4 M NED and SCG inhibited antigen-stimulated TNF-α release (6h) by 42% and 48%, respectively. Interestingly. the functionally distinct intestinal mucosal MC (IMMC) is unresponsive to these drugs with regard to histamine secretion. However, as with PMC, 2h pretreatment with NED or SCG inhibited TNF-α-dependent cytotoxicity by IMMC. These effects may be important in the action of these drugs in vivo in the late phase reaction in asthma or other inflammatory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A well established drug for the treatment of asthma and allergy, sodium Cromoglycate, was found in open trials to be useful as a symptomatic treatment for upper respiratory tract infections. Objective To compare the efficacy of inhaled and intranasal sodium cromoglycate and matching placebos on the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. Methods Adult subjects with symptoms of runny nose, throat pain, or cough for less than 24 h were recruited. They were treated for 7 days using a randomized, doubleblind, placebo-controlled, group comparative design. The medication given was: sodium cromoglycate dry powder 20 mg per inhalation in spincaps; sodium cromoglycate aqueous nasal spray delivering 5.2 mg per dose; or matching placebo as dry powder and nasal spray. One spincap and one spray per nostril were taken every 2h during waking hours on days I and 2 and then four times daily on days 3-7. Severity of nine symptoms (general malaise, body aches and pains, chills and shivering, sneezing, nasal running, nasal blocking, sore throat, cough and voice disturbance) was recorded twice daily by subjects on diary cards, using a scale of 0 (absent) to 3 (severe). Results The study was conducted between February and April 1993. One hundred and eighteen patients aged 21-63 years (mean 41 years) were included. Symptoms resolved faster (P < 0.001) and the severity in the last three days of treatment was significantly less in patients treated with sodium cromoglycate than with placebo (P <0.05-day 5; P< 0.01-day 6; < 0.001-day 7). Side-effects were local and mild and did not differ between the treatment groups. Conclusion Sodium cromoglycate administered both by inhalation and intranasally is an effective treatment for the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection. Its combined safety and efficacy would make it an acceptable form of treatment for these conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antigen entry and the formation of immune complexes occur in atopic subjects after food ingestion. We have studied patients with asthma, eczema and arthralgia and we were able to detect the presence of IgE immune complexes and the antigen entry from the gut before and after food challenge. Food allergic subjects showed, after food challenge, the presence of IgE and IgG immune complexes, which correlates with the subsequent occurrence of symptoms. Both the symptoms and the appearance of IgE immune complexes could be prevented by pretreatment with oral sodium cromoglycate (SCG). IgE immune complexes were isolated by an isokinetic ultracentrifugation gradient and the components were analyzed for antigen-specific IgE and IgG as well as free antigen levels. The observation that SCG reduces antigen entry, the appearance of IgE immune complexes and the occurrence of symptoms point to the central role of IgE in the intestinal mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews is published quarterly as a DVD and monthly online. The January 2011 issue (first quarterly DVD for 2011) contains 4515 complete reviews, 1985 protocols for reviews in production, and 13,521 one-page summaries of systematic reviews published in the general medical literature. In addition, there are citations of 641,000 randomized controlled trials, and 14,018 cited papers in the Cochrane methodology register. The health technology assessment database contains over 9300 citations. One hundred and seven new reviews have been published in the last 3 months, of which five have potential relevance for practitioners in pain and palliative medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cochrane Library of Systematic Reviews is published quarterly as a DVD but monthly online. The October issue for 2010 (3rd DVD for 2010) contains 4407 complete reviews, 1962 protocols for reviews in production, and 13,521 one-page summaries of systematic reviews published in the general medical literature. In addition there are citations of 635,000 randomized controlled trials, and 13,721 cited papers in the Cochrane methodology register. The health technology assessment database contains over 8900 citations. Ninety-eight new reviews have been published in the last 3 months of which nine have potential relevance for practitioners in pain and palliative medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of topical sodium cromolycate and medrysone was evaluated in 38 patients suffering from atopic keratoconjunctivitis. It was found that medrysone (1%) signifmntly improved the symptoms of itching, watering. photophobia and hyperaemia, while sodium cromoglycate (2%) was found to be ineffective. Tear prostaglandin E2 and histamine levels did not decrease significantly after sodium cromoglycate therapy. The findings of the present study reveal that sodium cromoglycate has no significant role in the management of atopic keratoconjunctivitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]