Nedocromil sodium and sensory nerves in the dog lung.

The effect of nedocromil sodium on the main sensory nerve types in the dog lung has been studied. Nedocromil sodium (0.1, 1.0 and 10 mg/kg i.v.) did not stimulate or inhibit the discharge pattern of pulmonary stretch receptors, rapidly adapting irritant receptors or pulmonary C-fibre endings. Nedocromil sodium 5 micrograms/kg given into the aortic arch did, however, stimulate bronchial C-fibre endings. These endings were also stimulated when the drug was given by aerosol. The possibility that nedocromil sodium suppresses cough in the dog by stimulation of bronchial C-fibre endings is discussed.