Cromolyn sodium works by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.

Cromolyn sodium nasal (for the nose) is used to prevent or relieve allergy symptoms such as runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, and itching.

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

Cromolyn sodium nasal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

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.

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.

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 young child younger than 2 years old without medical advice.

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.

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

Rinse with water if cromolyn sodium gets in your eyes.

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

Stop using cromolyn sodium and call your doctor if you have:

• severe burning, stinging, or irritation in your nose;

• nosebleeds, sinus pain, or sores in your nose;

• wheezing, tight feeling in your chest; or

• fever, green or yellow mucus from the 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 occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.