Long-term therapy with sodium cromoglycate (intal, lomudal or aarane): effects and side effects.

Review of 72 atopic asthmatic children from the age of three years demonstrated that the long-term use of sodium cromoglycate (Intal, Lomudal or Aarane) produced no serious side effects clinically or on pathological testing. Almost all the children improved, especially in their heights and weights. There is some evidence that girls showed a better response than boys. A possible explanation of growth improvement is discussed and it is concluded that SCG not only prevents asthmatic symptoms but it gives asthmatic children the best chance of maturing normally.