Mast cell stabilizer
CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship
How Does It Work
The mechanism in which Sodium Cromoglycate/Cromolyn Sodium, Gastrocom/Nasalcrom/Opticrom prevents immediate-onset and delayed-onset asthmatic reactions to allergens or nonimmunological stimuli is not completely known. It is believed that Sodium Cromoglycate/Cromolyn Sodium, Gastrocom/Nasalcrom/Opticrom stabilizes the membrane of mast cells and prevents them from releasing mediators, such as histamine and leukotrienes.
Indications For Use
Food allergy, systemic mastocytosis, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, keratitis, asthma, exercise or allergen induce bronchospasm prophylaxis
Precautions
Before starting Sodium Cromoglycate/Cromolyn Sodium, Gastrocom/Nasalcrom/Opticrom make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. Prophylactic use of this drug provides no additional benefit during acute reactions. Furthermore, do not abruptly discontinue therapy to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Usual Dosing
Oral: 200mg 4 times daily up to 40mg/kg/day
Ophthalmic: 1-2 drops into each eye 4-6 times per day
Oral Inhalation: 20mg nebulized 4 times per day (asthma) or as a single dose 30 minutes before exposure (bronchospasm prophylaxis)
Intranasal: 1 spray (5.2mg) in each nostril 3-4 times per day
Pharmacist Tips On Using
How to Take:
Oral: Take orally 15 minutes to 20 minutes before meals and swallow whole.
Ophthalmic: Apply light pressure to the lacrimal sac (inside corner of the eye near nose) for 60 seconds after application to prevent drainage of the drop from the eye.
Oral Inhalation: Add the appropriate amount of solution to the nebulizer and top up with saline as needed to the minimum fill line of your nebulizer then nebulize over 5-10 minutes.
Intranasal: Clear nasal passages before use by lightly blowing nose. May need to prime the pump by using it a few times until a fine mist appears. Aim away from the septum and lightly sniff as you spray.
Side Effects
Chest pain, edema, flushing, tachycardia, headache, irritability, fatigue, anxiety, burning sensation, pruritis, skin rash, skin photosensitivity, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, dyspepsia, unpleasant taste, dysuria, urinary frequency, muscle pain.
Note this is not a complete list of side effects for Sodium Cromoglycate/Cromolyn Sodium, Gastrocom/Nasalcrom/Opticrom only common ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this medication take to work?
This medication in most dosage forms and for most indications does require regular use for 1-4 weeks for maximum effect which limits its use in a lot of scenarios. It is very uncommonly used in asthma for this reason and it is not as effective as more common therapies.