Bronchodilator effects of disodium cromoglycate in exercise-induced bronchoconstriction

Twelve asthmatic subjects (mean age 23.3 years) exercised on three separate occasions, during which they all received combinations of disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) aerosol (10 mg) or placebo, both before and after exercise in a randomized double-blind study. There was a significant improvement in resting FEV 1 in those subjects receiving DSCG before exercise compared with placebo ( P < 0.05). Following exercise there was a more rapid recovery of FEV 1 in those receiving DSCG after exercise compared with placebo ( P < 0.005). The greatest differences in FEV 1 between placebo and DSCG treated groups were seen in the first 20 minutes after receiving the drug in the post-exercise period. These findings suggest that DSCG has a significant bronchodilator effect.