Why is this medication prescribed?

Crolom (cromolyn sodium) is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane lining the eyelids and covering the white part of the eye) due to allergies. It works by preventing the release of certain substances in the body that cause allergic reactions.

• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Crolom is effective in managing symptoms such as redness, itching, watering, and swelling of the eyes caused by allergies such as hay fever or pet allergies.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Crolom should typically be used:

• Dosage: Typically, Crolom is available as an eye drop solution with a strength of 4%. The usual dosage is one to two drops in each affected eye four to six times daily, or as directed by your doctor.
• Administration: Follow these steps for proper administration:
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the eye drops.
  • Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  • Hold the dropper directly over the eye and place the prescribed number of drops into the pocket formed by the lower eyelid. Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
  • Close your eyes gently for 1 to 2 minutes. Apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye (near the nose) to prevent the medication from draining into the tear duct, which can cause systemic absorption.
  • If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the eye drops and wait at least 10 minutes before reinserting them.
• Duration of Use: Crolom is typically used regularly during allergy season or as directed by your doctor. It may take a few days to several weeks to see the full benefits of the medication.
• Precautions: Do not use Crolom if you are allergic to cromolyn sodium or any other ingredients in the eye drops. Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen while using Crolom.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication leaflet provided with the product for specific details on usage, storage, and potential side effects.

Other uses for this medicine

Some of the other potential uses for Crolom include:

• Asthma: Cromolyn sodium has historically been used as an inhalation solution to prevent asthma attacks triggered by exercise, allergens, or other irritants. However, it is not typically a first-line treatment for asthma anymore, as newer medications have proven more effective.
• Mastocytosis: In some cases, cromolyn sodium has been used to stabilize mast cells and reduce symptoms in patients with mastocytosis, a condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of mast cells in various tissues.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergic Reactions: Before using Crolom, inform your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to cromolyn sodium or other medications. Allergic reactions to cromolyn sodium are rare but can occur.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Crolom eye drops. Wait at least 10 minutes after applying the drops before reinserting your lenses to avoid potential interactions or discomfort.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It’s essential to discuss with your doctor the potential risks and benefits of using Crolom if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. While there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women, caution is generally advised.
• Children: The safety and effectiveness of Crolom in children have not been well established in infants under 4 years old. Use in children should be under close medical supervision.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any other medical conditions you have, especially if you have liver disease or any eye infections or injuries.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Crolom eye drops are unlikely to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience blurred vision or other visual disturbances after using the drops, wait until your vision clears before performing these activities.
• Storage: Store Crolom eye drops at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication leaflet provided with the product for specific details on usage, storage, and potential side effects. If you have any concerns or questions about using Crolom, consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your specific medical situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with using Crolom eye drops. It is generally safe to continue your normal diet while using this medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use a dose of Crolom eye drops, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use extra drops to make up for a missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cromolyn sodium (Crolom) generally has a good safety profile when used as directed. Most people tolerate it well with minimal side effects. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Here are some potential side effects associated with Crolom:

• Eye Irritation: Temporary stinging or burning sensation in the eyes may occur after using Crolom eye drops. This usually subsides quickly and is mild.
• Eye Discomfort: Some people may experience temporary discomfort or itching in the eyes after using the drops.
• Blurred Vision: Blurred vision or other visual disturbances may occur shortly after applying Crolom eye drops. This usually resolves quickly.
• Watery Eyes: Paradoxically, some individuals may experience increased watering of the eyes after using Crolom.
• Headache: Occasionally, headache may occur as a side effect of using Crolom.
• Nasal Congestion: In rare cases, Crolom can cause nasal congestion.
• Systemic Reactions: Although uncommon, systemic allergic reactions to cromolyn sodium have been reported. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

It’s important to note that these side effects are usually mild and transient. Serious side effects with Crolom are rare. If you experience any persistent or concerning side effects while using Crolom, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication leaflet provided with the product for specific details on potential side effects and what to do if they occur.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage of Crolom:

• Room Temperature: Store Crolom eye drops at room temperature, ideally between 15-30°C (59-86°F).
• Protect from Light: Keep the bottle tightly closed and protect from light.
• Avoid Contamination: Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, as this may contaminate the eye drops.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Crolom in a secure place where children and pets cannot access it.

Disposal of Crolom:

• Unused Medication: Dispose of any unused or expired Crolom eye drops properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
• Do Not Flush: Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Accidental Ingestion: If someone accidentally ingests Crolom eye drops or if you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center (such as the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 in the United States).
• Symptoms of Overdose: Overdose of Crolom is unlikely due to its low systemic absorption when used as directed. However, symptoms of systemic overdose are not well defined. Immediate medical attention is advised if ingestion occurs.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid Contaminating Dropper Tip: To prevent contamination and ensure the efficacy of the medication, do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, including the eyes or hands.
• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Use Crolom eye drops exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dosage or frequency without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Regular Follow-Up: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your response to treatment and any potential side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care (including ophthalmologists, allergists, and primary care physicians) that you are using Crolom. This helps ensure coordinated and safe medical care.
• Patient Information Leaflet: Read and follow the instructions provided in the patient information leaflet included with Crolom for additional details on usage, side effects, and precautions.

By following these guidelines, you can use Crolom safely and effectively for the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis under the guidance of your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about Crolom, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.