$Unique_ID{BRK01909}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{CROMOLYN SODIUM (INHALATION)}
$Subject{Intal (Fisons)}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (C) 1991 Publications International, Ltd.


CROMOLYN SODIUM (INHALATION)
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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 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.
     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.  It 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 works best when the level of medicine in your bloodstream
is kept constant.  It is best, therefore, to take the doses at evenly spaced
intervals day and night.  For example, if you are to take four doses a day,
the doses should be spaced six hours apart.
     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.  This allows
the cromolyn sodium to penetrate more deeply into the lungs.
     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, especially to cromolyn sodium.
     * 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 cromolyn sodium passes into
breast milk.

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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.
