Gastrocrom

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using cromolyn and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 4 times daily (30 minutes before meals and at bedtime). If you are using this drug to prevent a food allergy or for inflammatory bowel disease, your doctor may direct you to take it 15 to 20 minutes before meals. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Do not swallow the ampules. The contents of the ampules are used to make a solution. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. To make the solution, break open the ampule(s) and squeeze the liquid into a glass of water. Do not mix with fruit juice, soda, milk, or any fluid except plain water. Stir the solution well. Drink all of the solution right away. Do not mix it ahead of time. Do not take the ampules out of their foil pouch until right before using.

This medication does not work right away. You need to use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. It may take 2-3 weeks before you see a benefit from this medication. Your doctor may change your dose to find the best dose for you.

Do not use this form of cromolyn for inhalation (such as in a nebulizer), in the nose, or by injection. It is for oral use (swallowing) only. It does not work to treat breathing problems, nasal/seasonal allergies, or other allergic reactions.

Inform your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.

Headache, muscle aches, and diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor 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.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away 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 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before taking cromolyn, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Do not share this medication with others.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you have already had your meal, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Keep the ampules in their foil pouches at room temperature away from heat and light until ready for use. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.