Cromolyn sodium (nasal)

Cromolyn sodium helps stop the release of substances in the body that lead to inflammation.

Cromolyn sodium (nasal) is used to prevent or relieve allergy symptoms like a runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, and itching.

Cromolyn sodium (nasal) will not treat asthma symptoms, sinus infections, or the common cold.

Cromolyn sodium (nasal) may also be used for other reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

This medicine works best if used during allergy season, or at least 1 week before you come into contact with things you are allergic to (pollen, dust, pets, etc).

Cromolyn sodium nasal is usually given as 1 spray into each nostril every 4 to 6 hours. Do not use this medicine more than 6 times in a 24-hour period.

Use cromolyn sodium nasal only during times when you are in contact with things that cause your allergy symptoms. Do not use this medicine for longer than 12 weeks in a row without a doctor's advice.

To use the nasal spray:

• Blow your nose gently. Keep your head upright and insert the tip of the bottle into one nostril. Press your other nostril closed with your finger. Breathe in quickly and gently spray the medicine into your nose. Then use the spray in your other nostril.
• Do not blow your nose for at least a few minutes after using the nasal spray.
• If the spray gets in your eyes or mouth or on your skin, rinse with water.
• After using the nasal spray, rinse the tip with hot water or wipe it with a clean tissue and recap. Avoid getting water into the nasal spray tip.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks of use, or if symptoms get worse.

Do not share nasal medicine with another person. Sharing a nasal spray bottle can allow infections or disease to pass from one person to another.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle capped when not in use.

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medications you are taking.

You should not use cromolyn sodium if you are allergic to cromolyn sodium.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• wheezing, or breathing problems;
• drug allergies;
• a fever; or
• yellow or green nasal mucus.

Do not use cromolyn sodium (nasal) without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 2 years old without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using cromolyn sodium and contact your doctor if you experience:

• severe burning, stinging, or irritation in your nose;
• nosebleeds, sinus pain, or sores in your nose;
• wheezing or a tight feeling in your chest; or
• fever, green, or yellow mucus from your nose.

Common side effects may include sneezing or mild stinging inside your nose after use.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Rhinitis:

1 spray into each nostril every 4 to 6 hours Maximum dose: 1 spray in each nostril 6 times a day Comments:-It may take several days to notice an effect; optimal effect may not be seen for 1 to 2 weeks.-To prevent nasal allergies, it is best to start using this drug up to 1 week before anticipated exposure to allergens. Use: To prevent and relieve nasal symptoms of hay fever and other nasal allergies including runny/itchy nose, sneezing, and allergic stuffy nose.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Rhinitis:

Age: 2 years or older:1 spray into each nostril every 4 to 6 hours Maximum dose: 1 spray in each nostril 6 times a day Comments:-It may take several days to notice an effect; optimal effect may not be seen for 1 to 2 weeks.-To prevent nasal allergies, it is best to start using this drug up to 1 week before anticipated exposure to allergens. Use: To prevent and relieve nasal symptoms of hay fever and other nasal allergies including runny/itchy nose, sneezing, and allergic stuffy nose.

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Rinse your eyes with water if cromolyn sodium gets in them.

Other drugs may interact with cromolyn sodium, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform all your health care providers about all the medicines you are currently using and any medicines you begin or stop using.