$Unique_ID{BRK03109} $Pretitle{} $Title{cromolyn sodium (inhalation)} $Subject{Intal Fisons Antiallergic antiasthmatic cromolyn asthma attacks chemicals allergy} $Volume{} $Log{} Copyright (C) 1993 Publications International, Ltd. cromolyn sodium (inhalation) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ BRAND NAME (Manufacturer) Intal (Fisons) TYPE OF DRUG Antiallergic (antiasthmatic) INGREDIENT cromolyn DOSAGE FORMS Capsules (20 mg): for inhalation only Solution (20 mg per 2-ml ampule): for inhalation only Aerosol spray 8.1 g and 14.2 g (800 mcg per spray): for inhalation only STORAGE Cromolyn sodium capsules and solution should be kept at room temperature in tightly closed, light-resistant storage containers. The container of the aerosol form is pressurized; it should, therefore, never be punctured or broken. It should also be stored away from heat and direct sunlight. USES This medication is used to prevent asthma attacks. It is not effective in relieving asthma symptoms once an attack has begun. It works by preventing release of the body chemicals that are thought to be responsible for the symptoms of asthma or allergy. TREATMENT Cromolyn sodium capsules are for inhalation only--they should NOT be swallowed. The medication is not effective if swallowed. This medication comes packaged with instructions for use of the capsules with the Spinhaler device. It is very important that you completely understand how to use this device. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about administering this medication. The Spinhaler should be cleaned at least once a week. Take the Spinhaler apart and rinse it in clear, warm water. Do not use soap. Allow the inhaler to air-dry before you use it again. If properly cared for, the inhaler should last about six months. The solution form of this medication should be used only with a power-operated nebulizer equipped with a face mask. The solution form should never be used with a hand-held nebulizer. The aerosol form of this medication comes packaged with instructions for use. Read the instructions carefully; if you have any questions, check with your doctor or pharmacist. The aerosol can should be shaken well just before each dose is sprayed. The contents tend to settle on the bottom of the container, so it should be shaken to disperse the medication and equalize the doses. The 14.2 g container provides about 200 measured sprays, and the 8.1 g container provides about 112 measured sprays. Cromolyn sodium is most effective when therapy is started before contact with allergens (the suspected offending agents causing your allergy), so if you expect to be exposed to something to which you know you are allergic, it is a good idea to start taking your medication first. This medication will work most effectively when the level of medicine in your bloodstream is kept constant. It is best, therefore, that you try to take the doses at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. For example, if you are to take four doses of this medication a day, the doses should be evenly spaced at six hour intervals. If you are using another inhaler to open up the lungs (a bronchodilator), it should be used 20 to 30 minutes before using cromolyn sodium. The full benefits of this medication may not become apparent for up to four weeks after you start to take it. If you miss a dose of this medication and remember within an hour or so, take the missed dose immediately. If more than an hour has passed, however, do not take the missed dose at all; just return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the next dose of this medication. SIDE EFFECTS Minor. Cough, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, increased urination, nasal congestion, nasal itching, nausea, sneezing, stomach irritation, or tearing. These side effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down for a while; get up slowly from a sitting or reclining position, and be careful on stairs. This medication can cause mouth dryness, throat irritation, and hoarseness. Gargling and rinsing your mouth after each dose helps to prevent these effects. Major. Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or particularly bothersome. IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about itching, joint swelling or pain, nosebleeds, nose burning, painful or increased urination, rash, swelling of the face or eyes, swollen glands, or wheezing. INTERACTIONS Cromolyn sodium should not interact with other medications if it is used according to directions. WARNINGS * Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to any drugs. * Patients who are allergic to lactose, milk, or milk products may be allergic to the capsule form of this drug. * Before starting to take this medication, tell your doctor if you now have or if you have ever had kidney or liver disease. * Do not stop taking this medication unless you first check with your doctor. Stopping the drug abruptly may lead to a worsening of your condition. * Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Extensive safety studies in humans have not been conducted. Also, tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an infant. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. ---------------- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.