A double-masked study to compare the efficacy and safety of topical cromolyn for the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis.

Abstract

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE:

To compare the efficacy and safety of topical cromolyn between with and without preservative for the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis.

METHODS:

A double-masked study was performed in patients with allergic conjunctivitis. Each cromolyn sodium 2% ophthalmic solution with or without 0.01% benzalkonium chloride (BAK) was randomized to apply on either eye. The efficacy and safety were evaluated every other week by a questionnaire about ocular itching, redness and foreign body sensation, and objective scores of conjunctival redness, chemosis, cornea erosion and discharge using slit-lamp biomicroscopy. An overall response was also rated by physician's impression.

RESULTS:

A total of 37 subjects were enrolled in this study but only 33 completed the study. All of subjective questionnaire scores showed a significant improvement after treatment in both groups. Objective score of redness significantly decreased after treatment in either groups but not chemisos or discharge. After 4-week treatment, corneal erosion diminished significantly in the group without preservative but not in the group with 0.01% BAK. There was no significant difference between with and without 0.01% BAK groups in each subjective or objective score. No adverse effect related with medication was observed.

CONCLUSION:

Cromolyn 2 % ophthalmic solution was effective and safe to treat allergic conjunctivitis. A short-term use of cromolyn 2 % ophthalmic solution with 0.01% BAK would not cause any significant toxicity in patients with allergic conjunctivitis. Preservative-free cromolyn may be beneficial to the compromised eyes or eyes required of long-term medication.

• Authors: Yao-lin Liu, Fung-Rong Hu, I-Jong Wang, Wei-Li Chen, Yu-Chih Hou
• Journal: Journal of the Formosan Medical Association = Taiwan yi zhi (J Formos Med Assoc) Vol. 110 Issue 11 Pg. 690-4 (Nov 2011) ISSN: 0929-6646 [Print] Singapore
• PMID: 22118312 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Chemical References

• Benzalkonium Compounds
• Cromolyn Sodium

Topics

• Adult
• Benzalkonium Compounds (administration & dosage)
• Conjunctivitis, Allergic (drug therapy)
• Cromolyn Sodium (administration & dosage, adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Double-Blind Method
• Humans
• Mast Cells (drug effects)
• Middle Aged