Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglycate/OPTICROM) Eye Drops are indicated in the prevention and relief of the signs and symptoms of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (itching, tearing, congestion, etc.). Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglycate/OPTICROM) is a non-sedating medication and thus is ideal for those who need to operate heavy vehicles or machinery, and for those who need a non-drowsy solution to their allergies.
When an allergen such as pollen enters the body, Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglycate/OPTICROM) attaches to certain antibodies on specific cells in the body called mast cells. This starts a cascade of events leading to the influx of calcium into the mast cell. The mast cell then bursts open and releases histamine, which is the mediator that causes the allergic reaction and the itchy, watery eyes and runny nose you may experience. Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglycate/OPTICROM) binds to the mast cell and indirectly blocks the entry of calcium ions, thereby preventing the release of histamine. Since Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglycate/OPTICROM) blocks histamine release, it prevents the allergy symptoms that histamine usually causes. It has no intrinsic bronchodilator, antihistaminic or anti-inflammatory activity. The best results are obtained when you start to use Cromolyn(Sodium Cromoglycate/OPTICROM) before the onset of seasonal allergy symptoms. Start using Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglycate/OPTICROM) approximately one week before the allergy season begins and continue to use Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglycate/OPTICROM) every day throughout the allergy season, even if you do not have any symptoms. You can also use Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglycate/OPTICROM) to relieve your signs and symptoms after seasonal allergies have begun and to prevent further symptoms from appearing.
It is important that you use Cromolyn Eye Drops at regular intervals, 1-2 drops in each eye 4 times a day. Cromolyn should be used continually throughout the usual allergy season, even if you are free of symptoms. The maximum total daily dose is 16 drops or 8 drops per eye.
Using Cromolyn will not provide immediate relief of symptoms. In fact, it can take several days before you feel complete relief. The maximum effect is obtained in 1 to 2 weeks. In the meantime, other systemic, anti-allergy medications can be used if needed without fear of interaction with Cromolyn. You should begin to see modest improvement within a few days, however the full benefit will not be reached until you have been taking Cromolyn for 1-2 weeks.
Patients can safely use Cromolyn throughout the peak seasonal allergy periods each year. It is not recommended for year-round use, as there is always the chance that you may become tolerant to the medication through over-use. If you use it all year-round, Cromolyn may stop working for you. Taking a break from Cromolyn during the non-allergy season will avoid this risk and the product should be effective when used during the following allergy season.