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n.

A drug, C₂₃H₁₄Na₂O₁₁, usually administered by inhalation and used to prevent certain allergic attacks, especially those associated with asthma or hay fever.

[Alteration of chromonyl, one of its constituents (CHROM(O)– + –ON(E) + –YL) + SODIUM.]

n

trade names: Intal, Nasalcrom, Rynacrom; drug class: antiasthmatic; action: stabilizes the membrane of the sensitized mast cell, preventing release of chemical mediators; uses: allergic rhinitis, severe perennial bronchial asthma, exercise-induced broncho-spasm.

Brand names: Crolom®, Gastrocrom, Gastrocrom®, Intal®, Nasalcrom®, Opticrom®

Chemical formula:

Drug Forms:
• Cromolyn Sodium oral solution (below)
• Cromolyn Sodium inhalation capsules
• Cromolyn Sodium inhalation aerosol
• Cromolyn Sodium inhalation solution
• Cromolyn Sodium eye solution
• Cromolyn Sodium nasal spray

Español:
• Solución oral de cromoglicato sódico
• Cápsulas para inhalación de cromoglicato sódico
• Aerosol para inhalación de cromoglicato sódico
• Solución para inhalación de cromoglicato sódico
• Solución ocular de cromoglicato sódico
• Aerosol nasal de cromoglicato sódico

Cromolyn Sodium oral solution

What is cromolyn sodium oral solution?

CROMOLYN SODIUM (Gastrocrom®) helps to treat mastocytosis. This is a rare condition in which the body makes too many mast cells, releasing substances that cause headaches; stomach problems (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or pain); or skin reactions (flushing, hives, itching). This drug is also used to treat inflammatory bowel conditions, like ulcerative colitis. Generic cromolyn oral solution is not yet available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• liver disease
• kidney disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to cromolyn, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take the contents of cromolyn sodium oral concentrate by mouth after preparing the dose in a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Open the dosage container and mix the solution contents as directed according to your prescription in at least half a glass (4 fluid ounces) of water. Stir well. Do not mix with fruit juice, milk, carbonated drinks, or foods. Take your dose 30 minutes before food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. Cromolyn oral solution is commonly administered to children.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. Then space remaining doses evenly throughout the rest of the day. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with cromolyn?

There have been no interactions reported between cromolyn and other medicines.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking cromolyn?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Once your symptoms are improving your prescriber or health care professional may cut down on the number of capsules you need to use in a day. However, do not reduce your dose yourself, a certain dosage must be maintained at regular intervals to control your symptoms.

What side effects may I notice from taking cromolyn?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• skin rash and itching (hives)
• swelling of face, lips, or eyelids
• wheezing or continued coughing

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• headache
• indigestion or stomach ache
• muscle aches
• nausea, vomiting

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep the drug containers in the foil pouch until time of use. Once a container is opened, you should throw away any unused solution in the open container. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

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