What is Aarane?
Aarane is a combination inhaler containing cromoglicic acid (a mast cell stabilizer) and reproterol (a short-acting beta-2 sympathomimetic). It is used for the symptomatic acute treatment of sudden shortness of breath and for targeted prevention of exercise-induced asthma or in case of foreseeable contact with allergens. Longer-term treatment should be symptom-oriented and only in combination with anti-inflammatory maintenance therapy.
Cromoglicic acid stabilizes mast cells and prevents the release of inflammatory mediators, while reproterol dilates the bronchi. The combination thus provides a dual effect.
Aarane is prescribed less often today because inhaled corticosteroids are more effective. However, it can be used for mild allergic asthma or as an alternative in cases of corticosteroid intolerance.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Cromoglicinsäure, Reproterolhydrochlorid
Aarane combines two mechanisms of action:
Cromoglicic acid (mast cell stabilizer):
- Stabilizes the membrane of mast cells
- Prevents the release of histamine and leukotrienes
- Preventive against allergic reactions
- No direct bronchodilating effect
Reproterol (SABA):
- Activates beta-2 adrenoceptors
- Rapid bronchodilation
- Duration of action: 4-6 hours
- Additionally a mild antiallergic effect
Combined effect: Preventive (cromoglicic acid) plus symptomatic (reproterol) in one inhaler.
Who is it suitable for?
Aarane is suitable for:
- Mild allergic asthma
- Exercise-induced asthma (prophylactic)
- Allergen-induced asthma
- Children aged 2 years and older with mild asthma, provided they can use a metered-dose inhaler correctly
Limitations:
- Less effective than inhaled corticosteroids
- Purely preventive effect of cromoglicic acid
- No effect during an acute asthma attack (for cromoglicic acid)
Not suitable:
- For moderate to severe asthma
- As the sole acute therapy
Available Dosages
Aarane metered-dose inhaler:
- 1 mg cromoglicic acid + 0.5 mg reproterol per puff
- 2 puffs 4x daily
- Before allergen exposure: 2 puffs 10-15 min. beforehand
- Before exercise: 2 puffs 10-15 min. beforehand
Dosage form and pack sizes
The medicines catalogue lists one pack variant: one strength in one pack size.
- Dosage form
- Dosieraerosol
- Strengths
- 1/0,5 mg
- Pack sizes
- 200 Hübe
| Strength | Pack | PZN | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/0,5 mg | 200 Hübe | 00225437 | 25 days |
Packs listed in the German medicines catalogue. Which of them are currently available and what they cost is shown in the price overview.
The Pharmazentralnummer (PZN) is the nationwide unique identifier of a pack in Germany.
Duration is the catalogue value for the usual dosage. How long a pack actually lasts depends on the dose your doctor prescribes.
How to Take
Metered-dose inhaler: 1. Remove the protective cap, shake 2. Breathe out deeply 3. Close your lips around the mouthpiece 4. Breathe in slowly while releasing a puff 5. Hold your breath for 10 seconds 6. Second puff after 30 seconds
Important:
- Use regularly (preventive effect!)
- Additionally before known allergen exposure
- Before exercise for prophylaxis
Contraindications
Do not use in case of:
- Hypersensitivity to the active ingredients
- Infants and young children under 2 years of age (due to the levomenthol/peppermint oil content)
Use with caution in case of:
- Severe heart conditions
- Hyperthyroidism
- Pheochromocytoma
Pregnancy: Limited data. Only if clearly indicated.
Breastfeeding: Use after weighing benefits and risks.
Possible Side Effects
Common:
- Cough after inhalation
- Throat irritation
Uncommon:
- Tremor (due to reproterol)
- Palpitations
- Headache
- Taste disturbances
Rare:
- Paradoxical bronchospasm
- Allergic reactions
Interactions
Interactions:
- Beta blockers – may cancel out the effect of reproterol
- MAO inhibitors – increased effect on the heart
No relevant interaction with:
- Inhaled corticosteroids
- Antihistamines
Frequently Asked Questions
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are considerably more effective than cromoglicic acid in controlling asthma. Current guidelines recommend ICS as maintenance therapy. However, Aarane can be an alternative for mild allergic asthma.
Only the reproterol component helps with acute shortness of breath. Cromoglicic acid has a purely preventive effect. A sudden and increasing worsening of asthma symptoms can be life-threatening. In this case, or if a severe attack of shortness of breath cannot be relieved even by a second puff, you must seek medical help immediately.
Similar Medications
Is Aarane right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.