Nasal Allergy Symptom Control (Generic)

This medication is used to prevent allergic symptoms in the nose. It reduces stuffy/runny nose, mucus dripping into the back of the throat, itching, and sneezing caused by seasonal allergies (hay fever) and other allergens (e.g., dust mites, pet dander). This medication is not an antihistamine and does not provide immediate relief from allergic symptoms. It should be used before contact with the allergen.

Cromolyn is known as a mast cell stabilizer. It works by preventing the release of certain natural substances (histamine, SRS-A) made by the body that cause allergy symptoms.

Do not use this medication to treat sinus infection, asthma, or cold symptoms.

Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Use 1 spray in each nostril, usually every 4 to 6 hours (3 to 4 times a day) or as directed by your doctor. Do not use more than 6 times a day. Use every day you are around allergens (e.g., during pollen season).

Gently blow your nose before using this drug. If nasal passages are blocked, a nasal decongestant may be used first to open the passages. Use your finger to close the nostril on the side not receiving the medication. While keeping your head upright, place the spray tip into the open nostril. Spray the medication into the open nostril as you breathe in through your nose. Sniff hard a few times to be sure the medication reaches deep into the nose. Repeat these steps for the other nostril.

Avoid spraying the medication into your eyes. Rinse the spray tip with hot water or wipe with a clean tissue after each use. Make sure that water does not get inside the container. Replace cap after each use.

This medication does not work right away. It must be used regularly to be most effective. It may take 1 to 2 weeks of regular use to get the full benefit. If your condition persists or worsens after 2 weeks, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, stop using this medication and seek immediate medical attention. Talk with your doctor if you are still using this medication after 12 weeks.

This medication may cause brief stinging/sneezing right after use. If these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she 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.

Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right away if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: frequent nosebleeds, sores in the nose, wheezing/chest tightness.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention 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 using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to cromolyn; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as preservatives like benzalkonium chloride), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: asthma, growths in the nose (nasal polyps).

If you are using this medication for self-treatment, tell your doctor before using this medication if you have any of the following symptoms: fever, yellow/green/discolored fluid from the nose, sinus pain, wheezing.

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

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Refer to storage information printed on the package. Store at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines 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 for more details about how to safely discard your product.

If you are using this product under your doctor's direction, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use.

Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

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.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Do not share this medication with others. Doing so may cause the spread of germs.

Avoid allergens that may be the cause of your allergies. Some common allergens include molds, pollen, grasses, weeds, dust mites, and pet dander. This medication works better if started a week before you expect to be exposed to allergens (e.g., a week before your seasonal allergy symptoms usually start).