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Brand Names: Crolom, Opticrom

Generic Name: cromolyn sodium (ophthalmic) (Pronunciation: KROE moe lin off THAL mik)

• What is cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?
• What are the possible side effects of cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?
• What is the most important information I should know about cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?
• What should I tell my healthcare provider before using cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?
• How should I use cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Opticrom)?
• What happens if I overdose (Opticrom)?
• What should I avoid while using cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?
• What other drugs will affect cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?

Cromolyn sodium is an anti-inflammatory medication. It works by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.

Cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to treat allergy symptoms that affect the eyes, such as itching, burning, watering, swelling, redness, or sensitivity to light.

Cromolyn sodium ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medication and call your doctor if you have severe burning, stinging, or irritation in your eyes after using the eye drops.

Less serious side effects may include:

• mild burning or stinging after you use the eye drops;
• dry or irritated eyes;
• puffy eyes; or
• watery eyes.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about cromolyn sodium ophthalmic (Opticrom)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to cromolyn sodium.

Do not allow the tip of the eye dropper to touch any surface, including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.

It may take up to 6 weeks of using cromolyn sodium before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 6 weeks of treatment.

Do not wear contact lenses while using cromolyn sodium ophthalmic, or when you have allergy symptoms affecting your eyes.

During treatment with cromolyn sodium ophthalmic, avoid using any other eye medications that your doctor has not prescribed.