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.