Indications
Cromolyn sodium eye drops are a type of medication used to treat certain allergic eye conditions, such as vernal keratoconjunctivitis, vernal conjunctivitis, and vernal keratitis. Cromolyn sodium eye drops belong to a class of medications called mast cell stabilizers. It works by preventing the release of certain substances in the body that cause inflammation and allergic reactions.
Cromolyn is typically used to relieve and prevent symptoms of seasonal eye allergy and chronic eye allergy symptoms, such as itching, tearing, and redness. Topical cromolyn sodium eye drops have been shown to be effective in treating symptomatic giant papillary conjunctivitis.
Uses and Dosage
To use Cromolyn sodium eye drops, you should follow the instructions provided by your doctor or on the medication label. Use the medication as directed by your doctor and wait at least 10 minutes before administering other eye medications to prevent interactions. If you experience side effects or have any concerns about your treatment, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
The general steps for using the eye drops include:
- To avoid contamination of the bottle tip, replace the cap after each use and do not touch the eye, finger, or other surface with the bottle tip.
- Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them.
- Shake the eye drops well before each use.
- Tilt your head back and use your index finger to pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
- Hold the dropper directly above your eye and place the prescribed number of drops into the pocket.
- Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes to ensure the medication is distributed evenly across the eye.
The recommended dose of Cromolyn eye drops for adults and children over 4 years of age is 1 or 2 drops in each eye 4 times daily at regular intervals. Do not use more than 2 drops per eye at one time and do not use more than a total of 8 drops per eye per day. If possible, start treatment before your usual allergy season.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Cromolyn Eyedrops (Sodium Cromoglycate):
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
Serious Side Effects of Cromolyn Eyedrops (Sodium Cromoglycate):
- Coughing
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Hives or itching of skin
- Swelling of face, lips, or eyelids
- Wheezing or difficulty in breathing
- Watery or itchy eyes
- Puffy eye
Form and Strength
Cromolyn Eyedrops (Sodium Cromoglycate) is available in the following forms and strength:
Cromolyn Eyedrops: Opthalmic Solution (pms)
- 2%
Sodium Cromoglycate: Opthalmic Solution (pms)
- 2%
- 4%
Caution
- Cromolyn sodium may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, or those with a history of heart disease or hypertension.
- Cromolyn sodium may take several days or weeks to start working, continue using the medication as directed by your doctor.
- Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do.It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it, or a pharmacist has not recommended it.
- Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
- Do not wear soft contact lenses while using sodium cromoglycate eye drops.
- It may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include headache, stinging or burning in the eyes, and changes in taste.
- It may interact with other medications or products that you are using, including prescription or nonprescription drugs and herbal supplements. Be sure to inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking.
- It may not be appropriate for everyone, such as those with certain medical conditions or allergies. Before using Cromolyn sodium, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions or if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- Use Cromolyn sodium as directed and not exceed the recommended dose, as doing so may increase the risk of side effects or adverse reactions.
- Use of Cromolyn sodium may exacerbate certain eye conditions, such as dry eye or infections of the eye. If you have any pre-existing eye conditions, be sure to inform your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for cromolyn to start working?
Cromolyn can start working in as quickly as a few days. Use it every day for 6 weeks before they feel like their allergic symptoms are completely under control.
Can I use cromolyn every day?
Yes. Cromolyn needs to be used several times a day for it to work properly. It is safe to use long term, so you can use it for as long as you need it.
How often do you use cromolyn eye drops?
It is usually instilled into the affected eye 4 to 6 times a day. Use cromolyn ophthalmic at around the same time every day.
How long can you use cromolyn?
This medication is used in the affected eye(s), usually 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. Treatment may be continued for as long as 3 months.
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/cromolyn-ophthalmic-route/description/drg-20063174
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/cromolyn-sodium-ophthalmic.html
- https://www.goodrx.com/cromolyn/what-is
- https://www.rexall.ca/article/drug/view/id/1891/
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a617004.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7843/cromolyn-ophthalmic-eye/details
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