cromolyn (Nasalcrom, Gastrocrom)

Cromolyn sodium is used for the management of mastocytosis and to improve the symptoms associated with it, including:

• diarrhea,
• flushing,
• headaches,
• vomiting,
• urticaria (hives),
• abdominal pain,
• nausea,
• itching,
• runny and stuffy nose, and
• sneezing.

What brand names are available for cromolyn?

Nasalcrom, Gastrocrom

Is cromolyn available as a generic drug?

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Do I need a prescription for cromolyn?

No (nasal solution). Yes (other forms)

Common side effects include:

• diarrhea,
• headache,
• nausea,
• cough,
• wheezing, and
• dry throat.

Allergic reactions also can occur. Increased spasm of the breathing tubes (bronchospasm), throat irritation, and cough are the most common side effects from oral inhalation of cromolyn. Taking a beta-adrenergic bronchodilator (for example, albuterol) prior to the cromolyn can prevent these side effects. Cromolyn intranasal spray can produce sneezing and nasal irritation, but these effects generally are short-lived following each application. Use of cromolyn eye drops can produce irritation of the eye. This effect also is generally short-lived.

Cromolyn nebulized solution: 20 mg inhaled via nebulizer 2 or 4 times daily. Intranasal spray: Adults and children 2 years of age and older can use one spray in each nostril three or four times daily. If necessary, the dose may be increased to 6 times daily.

Ophthalmic (eye) solution: The usual dose in adults and children 4 years of age and older is one or two drops in each eye 4 to 6 times per day. Relief may be evident within a few days but several weeks of therapy may be required.

Oral concentrate solution: The recommended dose is 200 mg 4 times daily 30 minutes prior to meals.

No drug interactions have been described with cromolyn.

There are no adequate studies in pregnant women.

What preparations of cromolyn are available?

Intranasal Spray: 5.2 mg/spray; Nebulized Solution: 10 mg/ml: Opthalmic Solution: 4% (1.6 mg/drop); Oral Concentrate: 100 mg/5 ml.

How should I keep cromolyn stored?

Cromolyn should be kept at room temperature, 20 C - 25 C (68 F - 77 F).