New Long-Read Genetic Test Enables Faster and More Comprehensive Diagnosis of Rare Diseases
November 18, 2025
Brand Name :
Crolom
Synonyms :
cromolyn sodium ophthalmic
Class :
Mast Cell Stabilizers, Ophthalmic
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Ophthalmic solution
4% (ml)
1-2 drops into each affected eye 4 to 6 times a day
1-2 drops into each affected eye 4 to 6 times a day
Dosage Forms & Strengths
Ophthalmic solution
4% (ml)
>4 years: 1-2 drops into each affected eye 4 to 6 times a day
<4 years: Safety and efficacy not established
Refer adult dosing
Mechanism of action
Its mechanism of action involves stabilizing the mast cells in the body, which are involved in the immune response that can cause inflammation and other symptoms.
When mast cells are activated, they release chemicals such as histamine, which can cause allergic reactions and inflammation. cromolyn sodium works by preventing the release of these chemicals, which helps to prevent inflammation and reduce symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath
Spectrum
cromolyn sodium may also be used to treat other respiratory conditions, such as exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and mastocytosis (a rare condition in which mast cells accumulate in the body). It is generally well-tolerated and has a low risk of side effects, although it may cause coughing, throat irritation, and other respiratory symptoms in some people
Frequency undefined:
dryness around the eyes
eye irritation
rash
itchy eyes
transient burning
puffy eyes
watery eyes
styes
dyspnea
Contraindications
cromolyn sodium should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to the medication or any of its components
Caution
Pregnancy consideration: B
Lactation: Excretion of the drug in human breast milk is unknown
Pregnancy category:
Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester.
Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.
Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.
Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.
Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.
Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category
Pharmacology
cromolyn sodium is a mast cell stabilizer that prevents the release of histamine, leukotrienes, and other inflammatory mediators from mast cells. Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune response and are involved in releasing these inflammatory mediators in response to an allergen
When cromolyn sodium is administered, it is taken up by mast cells and inhibits the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing the symptoms of an allergic reaction. This action makes cromolyn sodium used in treating asthma, allergic rhinitis, and other allergic conditions.
Pharmacodynamics
It works by inhibiting the release of histamine and other inflammatory substances that cause bronchospasms and other symptoms of allergic reactions
cromoglicate is also used as an ophthalmic solution to treat allergic conjunctivitis, a common condition that causes redness, itching, and swelling of the eyes. It can be applied directly to the eyes to reduce inflammation and other symptoms
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
cromolyn sodium is not well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration, and only about 7% of an oral dose is absorbed. The bioavailability of inhaled cromolyn sodium is also low, at around 1%. However, when administered as an ophthalmic or nasal solution, cromolyn sodium is readily absorbed through the mucous membranes
Distribution
cromolyn sodium has a low volume of distribution and is primarily distributed to the lungs, where it exerts its therapeutic effects. It is also distributed to other tissues, including the liver and kidneys
Metabolism
cromolyn sodium is not extensively metabolized in the body, and most of the drug is excreted unchanged in the urine. A small amount of metabolism does occur, and the primary metabolite is N-desmethylcromolyn, which is less active than the parent compound
Excretion
cromolyn sodium is primarily excreted in the urine, with around 60-70% of an oral dose excreted within 24 hours. The elimination half-life of cromolyn sodium is relatively short, at around 1.5 hours
Administration
cromolyn sodium is available in different forms, including inhalation, nasal solution, ophthalmic solution, and oral capsules. cromolyn sodium ophthalmic solution is used to treat allergic conjunctivitis. The usual dose is 1-2 drops in each affected eye, four to six times a day
Patient information leaflet
Generic Name: cromolyn sodium
Why do we use cromolyn sodium?
cromolyn sodium ophthalmic solution is used to treat allergic conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the transparent membrane covering the eye’s white part). It works by preventing the release of inflammatory substances in the eye, reducing redness, itching, and watering.