Cromolyn Sodium and Nedocromil: Long-Term Asthma Control Medications
Intal® (cromolyn) and Tilade® (nedocromil) are long-term asthma control medications. They are available in inhaled forms. They help prevent asthma symptoms, especially symptoms caused by exercise, cold air and allergies. When used routinely, cromolyn or nedocromil help prevent swelling in airways. Because cromolyn and nedocromil are preventive, they must be taken on a regular basis to be effective.
Sometimes they may be used as a pre-treatment before exposure to things that make asthma worse. It is important to understand that these medications are not quick-relief medications. They may be slow to show effect and may require four to eight weeks to observe significant improvement. In addition, they are less effective than inhaled steroids and leukotriene modifiers.
- Intal® (cromolyn)
- Tilade® (nedocromil)
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- Helps to prevent asthma symptoms, especially symptoms caused by exercise, cold air and allergies.
- When used routinely, helps to prevent swelling and twitchiness in the airways.
- Rarely causes side effects
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- Available as MDI
- Usually prescribed to take 2-4 times every day.
- More commonly prescribed for children with asthma.
- May not see improvement in asthma for 4-8 weeks
- These medicines are not quick-relief medicines and should not be taken to relieve symptoms.
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This information has been approved by David Tinkelman, M.D. (February 2006).
