Cromolyn (Cromolyn Sodium)

What is Cromolyn?

Cromolyn is an anti-inflammatory eye drop.

What is Cromolyn used for?

Cromolyn is used in the treatment of allergic symptoms of the eye. These symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, increased sensitivity to light, watering or burning of eyes.

How does Cromolyn work?

Cromolyn is an anti-inflammatory medication. It inhibits the release of chemicals which cause inflammation and thus relieves inflammatory symptoms.

How to use Cromolyn

Cromolyn should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Using the medication for longer periods or in larger amounts than prescribed is not advisable.

Before using the eye drops wash your hands properly and remove your contact lenses, if any.

To apply the drop, you should tilt your head back slightly, pull down your lower eyelid, look away from the dropper and put 1 drop into the eye. Close your eyes and gently press the inner corner of the eye for 2-3 minutes to prevent the drop from going into the tear duct. Maintain a gap of 5 minutes between subsequent drops.

Care should be taken that the dropper does not come in contact with your eyes, hands or any other body surface in order to prevent contamination of the dropper.

Cromolyn may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Hence wear your lenses at least 15 minutes after application of the drop.

Cromolyn should be applied at evenly spaced intervals to get the best results.

It may take up to 6 weeks for your condition to improve. Do not increase or stop the dose during this period without consultation with your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve even after 6 weeks or if it worsens contact your doctor immediately.

Cromolyn warnings and precautions

Cromolyn is not administered to patients who are allergic to cromolyn sodium.

Stop using the drug and consult your doctor if you feel it is having adverse effects on your vision.

Do not use the eye drop if you find discoloration of the liquid or particles inside it.

Cromolyn is not considered to be harmful to a fetus and it is not expected to pass through breast milk. Still, pregnant and lactating mothers should discuss the possible risks and benefits of using Cromolyn with their doctor.

What do I do if I have missed a Cromolyn dose?

If you have missed a Cromolyn dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Cromolyn overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Cromolyn, consult your doctor immediately.

Cromolyn interactions

Oral drugs and injections are not expected to interact with Cromolyn. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all the prescription, non-prescription, herbal medicines and vitamin-mineral supplements that you are taking.

Do not start using any new eye medication without consulting your doctor first.

Cromolyn side effects

Side effects from Cromolyn include allergic reactions such as hives, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat or breathing difficulty. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience vision changes or severe eye pain.

Dry or irritated eyes, watery eyes, burning or stinging sensation in the eye, puffy eyes are some common and less serious side effects of Cromolyn. Tell your doctor about these side effects, but do stop using the medication unless your doctor asks you to.