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cromolyn - oral, Gastrocrom

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GENERIC NAME: CROMOLYN - ORAL (CROW-mow-lin)

BRAND NAME(S): Gastrocrom

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used in people with a food allergy to prevent serious reactions to foods. It is also used to treat and prevent inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., ulcerative colitis). Cromolyn belongs to a class of medications called mast cell stabilizers. It works by preventing mast cells (cells involved with allergic/inflammatory reactions) from releasing substances (e.g., histamines) that can cause skin and gut problems.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth 15 to 20 minutes before meals, usually 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor.Swallow the capsule whole. If you are taking this medication for food allergy, or if you have trouble swallowing capsules, it is recommended that you take this medication as a solution. When you are ready to take your dose, open the capsule and dissolve the contents into a small amount of hot water. Add cold water, mix, and drink all of the mixture. Do not mix with any other liquid or food. Do not prepare the solution in advance.Dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, headache, joint pain, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: muscle weakness, unusual tiredness, swelling of the ankles/feet.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.