Effect of inhaled beclomethasone and nedocromil sodium on bronchial hyperresponsiveness to histamine and distilled water

In a randomized, cross-over study we compared the effects of inhaled nedocromil sodium, 4 mg q.i.d., with inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate, 200 micrograms q.i.d. in 23 atopic asthmatic patients. After a 3 week single-blind placebo period, regarded as the baseline, and after 4 and 8 weeks of active treatment, drug effects were assessed with regard to bronchial hyperresponsiveness to histamine and distilled water, lung function and beta 2-agonist use. After 4 and 8 weeks of treatment, nedocromil sodium reduced the histamine responsiveness (p