Cromolyn (Mast Cell Stabilizers) [Picmonic]

There’s a Picmonic for That: Cromolyn (Mast Cell Stabilizers)

Studying pharmacology and struggling to remember when to use mast cell stabilizers like Cromolyn? There’s a Picmonic for that!

Cromolyn (Mast Cell Stabilizers)

Cromolyn sodium (Intal) or cromoglicic acid is a medication preventing the breakdown of mast cells. By preventing their breakdown, this medication prevents the release of inflammatory agents like histamine from entering the tissue. This medication is now often given second line in asthma prophylaxis, because it’s required four times per day on a fixed schedule to be effective.

Key Facts About Cromolyn

Mast Cell Stabilizer

Picmonic Hint: Mast Sail Stabilized

This medication stabilizes mast cells. Mast cells break down as part of the inflammatory reaction and release histamine, a powerful vasodilator. These medications prevent mast cells from breaking down and releasing their contents.

Asthma Prophylaxis

Picmonic Hint: Asthma-inhaler with Purple-axes

This medication is indicated only for the prevention of asthma attacks, as it prevents the breakdown of mast cells. It has no indication for treatment of an acute asthma attack.

Bronchial Inflammation

Picmonic Hint: Broccoli in Flames

Cromolyn is used to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm by working as an anti-inflammatory. It should be administered approximately 15 minutes prior to exercise.

Allergic Rhinitis

Picmonic Hint: Allergy-alligator with Runny-nose

Cromolyn is indicated as a nasal spray in some countries for the treatment of allergic rhinitis caused by irritants. It prevents the body from initiating an inflammatory reaction.

Cough

Picmonic Hint: Coughing Coffee-pot

Patients may experience a cough as a side effect of the medication because it increases the viscosity of mucus secretions.

Bronchospasm

Picmonic Hint: Broccoli-spaceship

In very rare instances, patients have a paradoxical bronchospasm when taking this medication.

Fixed Schedule Administration

Picmonic Hint: Fixed-clock Administered

Because this medication is used to prevent inflammatory responses like asthma, it must be maintained at a constant therapeutic level. This medication must be given on a fixed schedule and is administered via a nebulizer or a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). Because of administration 4 times daily, other medications are now preferred for use in asthma prophylaxis.

In short, Cromolyn is a mast cell stabilizer used for asthma prophylaxis, bronchial inflammation, and allergic rhinitis. Side effects may include a cough and bronchospasm. Be sure to administer on a fixed schedule.