cromolyn sodium (inhalation)

What is the most important information I should know about cromolyn sodium inhalation?

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.

What is cromolyn sodium inhalation?

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

Cromolyn sodium inhalation is used to prevent bronchial asthma attacks in adults and children who are at least 2 years old.

Cromolyn sodium inhalation is also used to prevent bronchospasm caused by exercise or exposure to cold dry air, chemicals, or environmental pollutants or allergens (such as animal dander or chemicals used in manufacturing).

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

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using cromolyn sodium inhalation?

To make sure cromolyn sodium inhalation is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• heart disease or a heart rhythm disorder;
• coronary artery disease;
• kidney disease; or
• liver disease.

Cromolyn sodium inhalation is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.

How should I use cromolyn sodium inhalation?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Cromolyn sodium is not a rescue medicine. It will not work fast enough to treat an asthma attack. Use only a fast acting inhalation medicine for an asthma attack. Tell your doctor if it seems like your asthma medications don't work as well.

To use the solution with a nebulizer:

• Break open the ampule and empty the medicine into the chamber of the nebulizer. Attach the mouthpiece or face mask, then attach the drug chamber to the compressor.
• Sit upright in a comfortable position. Place the mouthpiece into your mouth or put on the face mask, covering your nose and mouth. Turn on the compressor.
• Breathe in slowly and evenly until no more mist is formed by the nebulizer and the drug chamber is empty.
• Clean the nebulizer after each use. Follow the cleaning directions that came with your nebulizer.

Do not swallow this medicine.

To prevent bronchial asthma attacks, cromolyn sodium inhalation is usually given 4 times daily.

To prevent bronchospasm caused by exercise or environmental factors, use the medicine 10 to 15 minutes before exercise or exposure.

Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully. Your dose needs may change if you have surgery, are ill, are under stress, or have recently had an asthma attack.

It may take several weeks before your symptoms improve. Keep using the medication as directed and tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of using cromolyn sodium.

Asthma is usually treated with a combination of drugs. Use all medications as directed by your doctor. Read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each medication. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without your doctor's advice. Every person with asthma should remain under the care of a doctor.

If you also use a steroid medication, do not stop using it suddenly or you may have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk with your doctor about tapering your steroid dose before stopping completely.

Do not use cromolyn sodium if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medication.

What happens if I miss a dose?

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.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking cromolyn sodium inhalation?

Do not mix cromolyn sodium inhalation with other medicines in your nebulizer.

What are the possible side effects of cromolyn sodium inhalation?

• worsening asthma symptoms; or
• coughing, wheezing, choking, or other breathing problems after using this medicine.

Common side effects may include:

• sneezing, stuffy nose;
• cough; or
• mild wheezing.

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 inhalation?

Other drugs may interact with cromolyn sodium, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about cromolyn sodium inhalation.