When should Cromolyn Sodium be used in asthma treatment?

Cromolyn Sodium is primarily used as a preventative treatment for asthma. It works by stabilizing mast cells and preventing the release of inflammatory mediators that contribute to bronchial hyperreactivity and asthma symptoms. This characteristic makes it suitable for long-term management rather than for acute asthma attacks.

When used on a regular basis, Cromolyn Sodium can help to decrease the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms, making it a valuable option for patients who experience exercise-induced bronchospasm or those who have allergic responses that trigger their asthma. It is not effective during acute exacerbations since it cannot provide immediate relief. Instead, it is an adjunctive therapy aimed at providing routine protection against asthma triggers, which aligns with the needs of long-term prevention.

In contrast, other medications are typically indicated for acute situations, such as rescue inhalers that offer rapid bronchodilation, highlighting why Cromolyn Sodium is not suitable in those contexts.