Cromolyn sodium and nedocromil sodium are typically used as controller medications. They are often used before exercise or exposure to another asthma trigger. Corticosteroids are used as controller medications in people with moderate to severe persistent asthma. When using cromolyn sodium or nedocromil sodium some people get a cough or headache. Nedocromil has an unpleasant taste and it may help to rinse out your mouth and drink a few sips of water after using this medicine.
Some people get a headache, dry mouth, unpleasant taste, or cough.
When used according to directions, inhaled corticosteroids do not cause the potentially serious side effects that can occur with regular use of oral corticosteroids. Important notes These medications are strictly controller medications and are not effective as reliever medications. They cannot stop an asthma attack once it has started. Reverse and prevent airway inflammation. Begin to work in about three hours and are most effective in 6 to 12 hours.