Study of 2% solution of sodium cromoglycate in perennial rhinitis assessed by subjective and objective parameters

Summary The efficacy of a 2% solution of sodium cromoglycate has been assessed in the treatment of chronic perennial rhinitis by a double-blind group comparative trial over a period of 4 weeks. The solution was administered to the nose as a fine spray delivered by a metered device at a frequency of six times a day; thus the daily dose of active drug was approximately 31.2 mg. The patients' response was measured by both subjective and objective parameters; in addition nasal smears were examined for eosinophils before and after treatment. Analyses of the subjective data demonstrated a significant difference between the active and placebo solutions at the end of the trial. The objective data was obtained by measurement of nasal resistance and flow at weekly intervals; there was a highly significant difference between the two treatment groups compared to the baseline measurements after only 1 week's treatment. There was a reduction of eosinophils in the nasal smears in those patients allocated the SCG solution, there was virtually no change in those who received placebo; the difference was significant. This study has demonstrated that a 2% solution of SCG is effective in the treatment of perennial rhinitis. It has been shown that measurements of nasal airways resistance and flow are sensitive indices of changes in the mucous membrane of the nose and that beneficial effects of SCG solution can be detected after 7 days treatment.