Clinical effects of nedocromil sodium on allergen-related mechanisms

Many studies have demonstrated the ability of nedocromil sodium to block the acute response to allergen in persons who are sensitive to allergen. One study with subjects sensitive to ragweed showed a significant protective effect after a single 4 mg dose of nedocromil sodium, with no further protection achieved at higher doses. Numerous studies have also shown the ability of the drug to reduce or abolish the late asthmatic response in sensitive subjects when it was given before allergen challenge. Nedocromil sodium has also been shown to prevent the subsequent development of bronchial hyperresponsiveness. In addition, nedocromil sodium prevented the late asthmatic response when given after allergen challenge and an intact early response. These findings suggest that nedocromil sodium may be preventing the inflammatory events initiated by mast cell mediator and cytokine release.