Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Cromolyn Sodium?
Cromolyn sodium works by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.
Cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat allergy symptoms that affect the eyes, such as itching, burning, watering, swelling, redness, or sensitivity to light.
Cromolyn sodium ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to cromolyn sodium.
This medicine is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether cromolyn sodium ophthalmic passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give this medication to a child younger than 4 years old.
How should I use Cromolyn Sodium
Use Cromolyn Sodium (Opticrom) 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.
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
For best results, use this medicine at regular intervals.
Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
To apply the eye drops:
- Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.
- Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting. Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.
- Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed. If you use more than one drop, wait about 5 minutes between drops.
- Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.
Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
It may take up to 6 weeks before your symptoms improve. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Cromolyn Sodium side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using this medication and call your doctor if you have severe burning, stinging, or irritation in your eyes after using the eye drops.
Common side effects may include:
- mild burning or stinging after you use the eye drops;
- dry or irritated eyes;
- puffy eyes; or
- watery eyes.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Cromolyn Sodium?
Do not wear contact lenses while using this medicine, or when you have allergy symptoms affecting your eyes.
Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.