Cromolyn
Pronounced
"CROW-mow-lin"
Uses
This medication is used to prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma. It is also used to prevent wheezing and shortness of breath caused by exercise, cold/dry/polluted air, or allergens such as pollen. Controlling breathing problems may decrease time lost from work or school. If you use this medication you may not need to use other asthma drugs (such as corticosteroids) as often.
Cromolyn belongs to a class of medications called mast cell stabilizers. It works by preventing release of certain natural chemicals (such as histamines) that may cause swelling of the airways and breathing problems.
This medication must be used regularly to prevent asthma symptoms. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler as prescribed.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using cromolyn and each time you get a refill. Follow the illustrated directions for the proper use of this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This product is used with special breathing equipment (power nebulizer with face mask or mouthpiece). Make sure you understand how to use the machine and how to properly clean it to prevent infections. A parent or other responsible adult should supervise a child who is using this type of machine. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist about the proper use of the equipment with this medication.
Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the solution. Do not mix this medication with other solutions or products in the nebulizer.
Inhale this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 4 times daily. If you are using this medication to prevent breathing problems related to exercise, cold/dry air, or allergens, use it within 10 to 15 minutes, but not more than 60 minutes, before exposure.
If you are using other inhaled medications, ask your doctor when to use each of the medications and in what order you should use them.
Learn which of your inhalers/medications you should use every day (controller drugs) and which you should use if your breathing suddenly worsens (quick-relief drugs). Ask your doctor ahead of time what you should do if you have new or worsening cough or shortness of breath, wheezing, increased sputum, worsening peak flow meter readings, waking up at night with trouble breathing, if you use your quick-relief inhaler more often (more than 2 days a week), or if your quick-relief inhaler does not seem to be working well. Learn when you can treat sudden breathing problems by yourself and when you must get medical help right away.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. This medication works best if always used at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not increase your dose, use it more often, or stop using this medication without first asking your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition, your age, response to treatment, and use of other asthma medications. Your doctor may lower your dose once the medication starts to work. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
It may take up to 4 weeks of regular use before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.
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