What is Nasalcrom (Cromolyn Nasal)?
Cromolyn sodium is an anti-inflammatory medication. It works by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.
Cromolyn sodium nasal is used to prevent allergy symptoms such as runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, itching, and post-nasal drip.
Cromolyn sodium nasal will not treat allergy symptoms that have already begun. The medication works best if used at least 1 week before you come into contact with things you are allergic to (pollen, dust, pets, etc).
Cromolyn sodium nasal will not treat the symptoms of asthma, sinus infections, or the common cold.
Cromolyn sodium nasal may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about Nasalcrom (Cromolyn Nasal)?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to cromolyn sodium.
Before you use cromolyn sodium nasal, tell your doctor if you have asthma, drug allergies, or polyps in your nose.
Cromolyn sodium nasal will not treat allergy symptoms that have already begun. The medication works best if used at least 1 week before you come into contact with things you are allergic to (pollen, dust, pets, etc).
Stop using this medication and call your doctor if you have severe burning, stinging, or irritation in your nose, nosebleeds, sinus pain, sores in your nose, wheezing, chest tightness, fever, or green/yellow mucus from your nose.
Do not use cromolyn sodium nasal more than 6 times in a 24-hour period. Do not use this medication for longer than 12 weeks unless your doctor has told you to.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Nasalcrom (Cromolyn Nasal)?
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to cromolyn sodium.
If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before you use cromolyn sodium nasal, tell your doctor if you have:
- asthma
- drug allergies; or
- polyps in your nose
FDA pregnancy category B. This medication is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether cromolyn sodium passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Nasalcrom Side Effects
What are the possible side effects of Nasalcrom (Cromolyn Nasal)?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives or itching; difficulty breathing; severe dizziness; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using this medication and call your doctor if you have any of these serious side effects:
- 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
Less serious side effects may include mild burning or stinging inside your nose after use.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Nasalcrom Interactions
What other drugs affect Nasalcrom (Cromolyn Nasal)?
There may be other drugs that can interact with cromolyn sodium nasal. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Nasalcrom (Cromolyn Nasal)?
Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this does happen, rinse with water.
Nasalcrom Dosage
How should I take Nasalcrom (Cromolyn Nasal)?
Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
This medicine is usually given as 1 spray into each nostril every 4 to 6 hours during allergy season or within 1 week before you will be exposed to an allergen. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
Do not use cromolyn sodium nasal more than 6 times in a 24-hour period. Do not use this medication for longer than 12 weeks unless your doctor has told you to.
To use the nasal spray:
- Blow your nose gently before each use
- Keeping your head upright, insert just the tip of the spray bottle into your nostril. Hold your other nostril closed with one finger. Spray the medicine into the nostril while inhaling, then sniff deeply a few times to make sure the medicine gets up into your nasal passages
- Repeat these steps in your other nostril
- 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
It may take up to 2 weeks of using this medicine before you get the full effect. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks of treatment.
Store cromolyn sodium at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle capped when not in use.
What happens if I overdose on Nasalcrom (Cromolyn Nasal)?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
What happens if I miss a dose of Nasalcrom (Cromolyn Nasal)?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
Sourced from everydayhealth.com