Cromolux (sodium cromoglycate) eye drops are used to
prevent or alleviate allergy symptoms affecting the eyes, also
known as allergic conjunctivitis. It is a very safe treatment and,
when used properly, quite effective. The medication works by
inhibiting the release of histamines and other chemicals in the eye
which produce the unpleasant symptoms allergy sufferers know all
too well:
- Itching
- Tearing
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Discharge
Note that the active ingredient in Cromolux eye drops,
sodium
cromoglycate, is avialable in a variety of other formulations
to treat allergy symptoms and inflammation in other parts of the
body, including:
- Inhalers or nebulizer solution to manage asthma
symptoms;
- Nasal spray to manage allergic rhinitis;
- Tablets or oral solutions to manage allergic
conditions of the skin and food allergies.
These products are not interchangeable; eye drops will have little
effect on nasal allergy symptoms, nasal sprays will have little
impact on asthma symptoms. The medication works best when applied
directly to the affected area; be sure to select the appropriate
formulation.
Getting Started with Cromolux Eye
Drops When most people hear the word "allergies" they
think of seasonal, outdoor allergies. However, most medications
which manage allergy symptoms---including Cromolux---will help with
allergens from any source, indoor or outdoor. For example, Cromolux
will alleviate symptoms from:
- Animal dander
- Dust
- Mold
- Smoke
- Pollution
- Pollen
- Other allergens
Cromolux eye drops can be used to manage existing allergy symptoms
or, when exposure to allergens can be anticipated, to prevent
symptoms from developing in the first place. Dosage and
administration is the same in both cases:
- Administer 1 to 2 drops in each eye.
- If applying multiple drops, wait at least 30 seconds between
drops.
- Gentle pressure at the corner of the eye near the nose will
help prevent drops from draining down tear ducts.
- Repeat treatment 4 to 6 times per day, evenly spaced
apart.
- Continue throughout allergen exposure or for as long as
treatment provides relief.
As a preventive measure, treatment with Cromolux should begin about
a week prior to anticipated allergen exposure, whatever that
allergen may be; a week before pollen season begins, or a week
before visiting that great-aunt with 27 cats. If used after allergy
symptoms have already begun, significant relief is usually felt
within 24 to 48 hours after beginning treatment. In rare, severe
cases relief may be slower and additional treatments needed along
with Cromolux; speak with a doctor or pharmacist about
complementary treatments. Treatment may continue indefinitely, as
long as it provides benefit and no disruptive side effects develop.
Treatment may resume at any time if needed.
Precautions
& Side Effects Cromolux is remarkably safe. The only
reason a particular patient should not use Cromolux is
hypersensitivity to the ingredients, which is quite rare. The
active ingredient is
sodium cromoglycate; inactive
ingredients may change over time or vary among generic products, so
are best checked by reading the label on the actual medication
being used. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty
breathing, hives or rash, and/or swelling of the face, lips, tongue
or throat. These symptoms warrant emergency medical attention. The
only side effect associated with Cromolux is a mild burning or
stinging sensation when drops are applied. This sensation is common
among any eye drops and usually passes quickly. It is not cause for
concern unless severe or persistent. There are no known
interactions with other medications. Cromolux is not known to have
any effect on any other medical condition or to cause problems in
unborn or breast-feeding babies. Treatment should not begin or
continue if the eye becomes infected. If an infected eye is being
treated, ask the doctor if Cromolux use may resume. Cromolux is
generally not suitable for use with soft contact lenses.