Mast-cell stabiliser

Sodium cromoglicate

Brand names: Intal, Opticrom, Nalcrom

Sodium cromoglicate is a mast cell stabiliser used as a prophylactic agent in asthma and allergic conditions, including by ophthalmic and other topical routes.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It stabilises mast cells, inhibiting the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators triggered by allergen exposure, thereby preventing allergic and asthmatic responses.

Prescribing in practice

It is purely prophylactic and ineffective for relief of an established acute asthma attack.
Regular continued use is required for benefit, and it should not be stopped abruptly in those whose symptoms it controls.
It is poorly absorbed and acts locally, so formulation must match the intended site of action.

Monitoring

Monitor symptom frequency and control to assess prophylactic benefit over time.

Counselling the patient

Use regularly to prevent symptoms rather than to treat an attack.
Continue even when well, and keep a reliever for acute symptoms if you have asthma.

Evidence & guidelines

Mast cell stabilisers have a long-established prophylactic role in allergic and asthmatic disease.

Reference: BTS/SIGN; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators

Pathways