VPT 311: General and Systemic Veterinary Pharmacology (2+1)

MAST CELL STABILIZER 

• The drug acts by stabilizing mast-cell membranes preventing degranulation and the release of chemical mediators (eg. Histamine and leukotrienes) in response to allergens.
• A depressant action on chemosensitive ending which trigger bronchoconstriction is also suggested.
• More recently it has been shown also to prevent the release of tissue-damaging free radicals of IgE activated platelets.
• Cromoglycate is not a bronchodilator and is not effective in the rapid relief of existing bronchoconstriction.
• It has given sufficient improvement in the respiratory function in horses with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Adminsitration is done via a special nebulizer and face – mask, 80 mg once daily for 1-4 days. The 10-15 min period of nebulization is generally well accepted by the horse.
• It is available as drug for protecting horses with allergic respiratory disease against predictable antigen challenge.