Cromolyn is a prescription medication used to treat
symptoms of asthma and
allergies. The medicine comes in several different forms, including:
- Cromolyn inhalation (Intal®), for the treatment of asthma
- Cromolyn nasal spray (NasalCrom®), an over-the-counter medication used as an allergy treatment
- Cromolyn oral solution (Gastrocrom®), for treating mastocytosis (a condition most commonly affecting the skin)
- Cromolyn eyedrops (Crolom®, Opticrom®), for treating eye allergies.
How Does the Medication Work?
Cromolyn belongs to a group of drugs called mast cell stabilizers. In response to allergens (substances that cause allergic reactions) and certain conditions, mast cells in the body release chemicals that cause
allergy symptoms. By stabilizing the mast cells, cromolyn prevents the mast cells from releasing the chemicals, which prevents these reactions.
The dose of cromolyn your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- The medical condition being treated
- The particular cromolyn product
- The severity of your condition
- Other medications you may be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
