Severe asthmatic reaction during long-term treatment with disodium cromoglycate powder inhalations.

Inhalation of inert particles may in susceptible subjects with bronchial asthma result in reflex bronchoconstriction mediated through the vagal nerves. A case of severe asthmatic reaction with bronchial spasm in a 60-year-old man with intrinsic asthma after inhalation of disodium cromoglycate powder (Lomudal) during long-term treatment is reported. The mechanism is considered to be reflexogenic. Because of the variability in individual susceptibility during long-term treatment, inhalation therapy should always be given with close attention to asthmatic exacerbations.