This medication is used to prevent allergic symptoms in
the nose. It reduces stuffy/runny nose, mucus dripping into the back of the
throat, itching, and sneezing caused by seasonal allergies (hay fever) and
other allergens (such as dust mites, pet dander). This medication is not an
antihistamine and does not provide immediate relief from allergic symptoms.
It should be used before contact with the allergen.
Cromolyn is known as a mast cell stabilizer. It works by
preventing the release of certain natural substances (histamine, SRS-A)
made by the body that cause allergy symptoms.
Do not use this medication to treat sinus infection,
asthma, or cold symptoms.
Follow all directions on the product package, or use as
directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
Use 1 spray in each nostril, usually every 4 to 6 hours
(3 to 4 times a day) or as directed by your doctor. Do not use more than 6
times a day. Use every day you are around allergens (such as during pollen
season).
Gently blow your nose before using this drug. If nasal
passages are blocked, a nasal decongestant may be used first to open the
passages. Use your finger to close the nostril on the side not receiving
the medication. While keeping your head upright, place the spray tip into
the open nostril. Spray the medication into the open nostril as you breathe
in through your nose. Sniff hard a few times to be sure the medication
reaches deep into the nose. Repeat these steps for the other
nostril.
Avoid spraying the medication into your eyes. Rinse the
spray tip with hot water or wipe with a clean tissue after each use. Make
sure that water does not get inside the container. Replace cap after each
use.
This medication does not work right away. It must be
used regularly to be most effective. It may take 1 to 2 weeks of regular
use to get the full benefit. If your condition lasts or gets worse after 2
weeks, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, stop using
this medication and get medical help right away. Talk with your doctor if
you are still using this medication after 12 weeks.
This medication may cause brief stinging/sneezing right
after use. If these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor
promptly.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication,
remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater
than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not
have serious side effects.
Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right
away if you have any serious side effects, including:
- frequent nosebleeds
- sores in the nose
- wheezing/chest tightness
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to cromolyn; or if you have any other
allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as
preservatives like benzalkonium chloride), which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
If you have any of the following health problems,
consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this
product:
- asthma
- growths in the nose (nasal polyps)
If you are using this medication for self-treatment,
tell your doctor before using this medication if you have any of the
following symptoms:
- fever
- yellow/green/discolored fluid from the nose
- sinus pain
- wheezing
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others. Doing so may
cause the spread of germs.
Avoid allergens that may be the cause of your allergies.
Some common allergens include molds, pollen, grasses, weeds, dust mites,
and pet dander. This medication works better if started a week before you
expect to be exposed to allergens (such as a week before your seasonal
allergy symptoms usually start).
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature away from light. Keep all
medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.