Cromolyn

Cromolyn sodium is a mast cell stabilizer which means that its mechanism of action is to block the release of inflammatory mediators, such as histamine.

When your body is exposed to allergens that could create symptoms of an allergic reaction, cromolyn sodium stops the mast cell degranulation that normally would show up in anaphylaxis. It therefore stops the symptoms of an allergic reaction from occurring in your body. Cromolyn sodium, however, is not an antihistamine or a corticosteroid medication.

Follow all directions given by your doctor, including prescribing information, FDA-approved product labeling, and Medication Guide. The use will change depending on which form of cromolyn sodium you use. If you are prescribed:

The oral concentrate:

• Dilute the contents with a glass of water and stir as well as you can.
• For systemic mastocytosis: take the mixture 30 minutes before meals and bedtime.
• For food allergies and inflammatory bowel disease: take the mixture 15-20 minutes before meals.

The nasal inhalation:

• For allergic rhinitis: use one spray per nostril three to six times a day.

The eye drops:

• For vernal conjunctivitis/keratitis/vernal keratoconjunctivitis: instill one or two drops in each eye four to six times daily, equally spaced throughout your day.

The nebulizer solution:

• For asthma prophylaxis: take one vial (20 mg) via a nebulizer four times a day at regular intervals.

The metered-dose inhaler:

• For asthma prophylaxis: take two oral inhalations (800 mcg/spray) four times a day at regular intervals.

For pediatric patients, the concentration of medicine and the number of times a day they take the medication will change depending on a variety of factors. Speak to your doctor about what is best for you or your child.

Adverse reactions will most likely change depending on which dosage form you receive. However, the most common side effects of cromolyn sodium in clinical trials compared to placebo include:

If you’re using the ophthalmic solution:

• Burning of eyes upon application
• Puffiness
• Irritation
• Eye dryness

If you’re using the oral solution:

• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Photosensitivity
• Angioedema
• Urticaria

If you’re using the nasal spray or inhalation solution:

• Nasal congestion
• Nasal itching
• Sneezing
• Nosebleeds
• Throat irritation and hoarseness
• Esophagitis
• Drowsiness, dizziness, bronchial irritation, pulmonary infiltrates, and cough

If you’re using cromolyn sodium to treat mastocytosis:

• Headache
• Pruritus
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Myalgia
• Abdominal pain
• Rash
• Irritability

Other (general) possible side effects:

• Dyspepsia (indegestion)
• Glossitis (inflammation of the tongue)
• Constipation
• Stomatitis
• Vomiting

Rarely, cromolyn sodium may cause some serious side effects, including:

• Allergic reactions
• Contact your healthcare team immediately if you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction.
• Eye drops may cause eye damage when wearing soft contact lenses.

Contact your healthcare professional for medical advice about any possible adverse effects you experience while taking cromolyn sodium. You can report your adverse effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Before starting cromolyn sodium, you should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Liver/kidney disease or impairment.
• Severe anaphylactic reactions have occurred; dosing changes of cromolyn sodium may be recommended based on your condition.
• A known allergy to cromolyn sodium.
• A pregnancy, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

Any known hypersensitivity to cromolyn sodium.

Some people may begin to notice mild improvements within 3 to 7 days of using cromolyn.

For optimal results, especially in chronic conditions like asthma or rhinitis, it may take 1 to 2 weeks or longer to experience the full benefit.

Cromolyn sodium does not have any noted severe interactions with other drugs. However, you should still inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements in case it does affect your condition or other medications.

Cromolyn (cromolyn sodium) is available in the following doses:

• A 100mg/5mL oral concentrate
• 5.2 mg/1 actuation nasal spray (Nasalcrom)
• 4% (10mL) ophthalmic solution
• 10 mg/1mL inhalation solution

Cromolyn sodium should be stored at room temperature, away from light and children. Keep it in the foil package until it is ready to use. Do not use it if the solution has become solid, cloudy, discolored, or expired.

Cromolyn (cromolyn sodium) is manufactured by Apotex and other generic companies.

Cromolyn sodium is a generic for multiple-brand drugs. Possible brand names include Gastrocrom or Intal (no longer offered).

To stop using Cromolyn, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider for a safe discontinuation plan. Stopping abruptly may cause a return of your symptoms.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. It is currently unknown whether cromolyn sodium is excreted in breast milk.