Cromolyn Sodium inhalation solution

What is this medicine?

CROMOLYN SODIUM (KROE moe lin SOE dee um) helps reduce inflammation. This medicine is used to treat the symptoms of asthma. It is also used to prevent bronchospasm from exercise or irritants. Never use this medicine to treat an acute asthma attack.

How should I use this medicine?

Use this medicine in a power-driven nebulizer with an adequate airflow rate. The nebulizer must have a suitable face mask or mouthpiece. Nebulizers make a liquid into an aerosol that you breathe in through your mouth or your mouth and nose into your lungs. You will be taught how to use your nebulizer. Do not take this medicine as a solution by mouth. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• dizziness

• fever

• infection

• joint pain, swelling

• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• bad taste

• cough

• nose bleed, irritation

• stomach upset, nausea

• stuffy nose, sneezing

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not mix other medicines in the nebulizer with this one, unless advised by your doctor to do so.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Do not use if it becomes cloudy or discolored. Store ampules in foil pouch until ready for use. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to cromolyn, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better. If your symptoms get worse or if you need your short-acting inhalers more often, call your doctor right away.

If you get a bitter or unpleasant taste in your mouth, gargle or rinse your mouth after you use this medicine.

If you use this medicine to prevent a bronchospasm from exercise or an irritant, use it shortly before exposure.