How it is administered

Cromolyn is administered orally as a solution. Each dose comes in a 5 mL ampule containing 100 mg of cromolyn sodium. The usual method is to break open the ampule, squeeze the contents into a glass of water, stir, and drink the entire solution. It should be taken at least 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime. Cromolyn is not for inhalation or injection.

How it works

Cromolyn is a mast cell stabilizer. It works by preventing mast cells from releasing certain chemicals, such as histamine and leukotrienes, which are responsible for many allergic and inflammatory symptoms. By inhibiting the release of these mediators, cromolyn helps reduce symptoms like diarrhea, flushing, headaches, vomiting, urticaria (hives), abdominal pain, nausea, and itching in patients with mastocytosis.

Cromolyn does not have direct antihistamine, vasoconstrictor, or steroid activity. It is poorly absorbed from the digestive tract, with most of the dose passing through the body without being absorbed. Its effectiveness depends on regular dosing at prescribed intervals.

Who Should take it

Cromolyn is indicated for the management of patients with mastocytosis, including systemic mastocytosis. It is used to help control symptoms such as diarrhea, flushing, headaches, vomiting, hives, abdominal pain, nausea, and itching.

Patients who experience these symptoms due to mastocytosis may benefit from cromolyn, especially if other treatments have not provided adequate relief. It can be used in adults and children over 2 years old, with dosing adjusted by age and weight.

Who should not take it

Cromolyn should not be taken by anyone who has shown hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to cromolyn sodium.

Caution is advised in patients with decreased kidney or liver function, as the dosage may need to be reduced. It is not recommended for children under 2 years of age unless the disease is severe and the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Pregnant or nursing women should use cromolyn only if clearly needed, as there is limited data in these populations.

Commonly used with

Cromolyn may be used with other medications to manage symptoms of mastocytosis, such as antihistamines (for itching and hives) and H2 blockers (for stomach symptoms). In clinical studies, it was compared to a combination of chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine) and cimetidine (an H2 blocker), and may be used alongside these or similar medications for comprehensive symptom control.

Commonly tested with

In clinical studies for mastocytosis, cromolyn has been tested alongside or compared to chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine) and cimetidine (an H2 blocker). These medications target different symptoms and may be used together in practice to provide broader symptom relief.