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Overview: Inhaled cromolyn is used to help prevent asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The most common side effects include temporary cough, stuffy nose, nausea, sneezing, and mild wheezing. Serious side effects are rare but may include severe allergic reactions or sudden breathing problems. Inhaled cromolyn is used with a nebulizer.

Uses

What is inhaled cromolyn used for?

Inhaled cromolyn is commonly used for the following.

  • To help prevent asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness
  • To help prevent airway tightening or breathing problems from exercise or contact with certain triggers (such as cold air or allergens)

Inhaled cromolyn may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

Cromolyn is also available in other forms. See CromolynCromolyn nasal, and Cromolyn ophthalmic for more information.

How does inhaled cromolyn work (mechanism of action)?

Inhaled cromolyn works by stopping certain immune cells (mast cells) in the lining of the airways from releasing chemicals that cause inflammation. This helps make the airways less sensitive to triggers like exercise, cold air, or allergens, which can help prevent asthma symptoms.

How is inhaled cromolyn supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Intal

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 20 mg/2 mL (10 mg/mL) inhalation solution, single-dose ampules/vials for nebulization

How should I store inhaled cromolyn?

Inhaled cromolyn should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Protect inhaled cromolyn from light by keeping the medicine in the original carton and tray. Only remove the medicine from the tray when you are ready to use it.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of inhaled cromolyn?

The most common side effects of inhaled cromolyn are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Temporary cough
  • Stuffy nose
  • Nausea
  • Sneezing
  • Mild wheezing

There may be other side effects of inhaled cromolyn that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of inhaled cromolyn?

While less common, the most serious side effects of inhaled cromolyn are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Inhaled cromolyn may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using inhaled cromolyn and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Sudden Breathing Problems. Inhaled cromolyn may cause the muscles around your airways to tighten (bronchospasm) right after you use it. In some cases, this can be serious. Stop using inhaled cromolyn and contact your health care provider right away if you have sudden breathing problems after using inhaled cromolyn.

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use inhaled cromolyn?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use inhaled cromolyn.

  • Cromolyn
  • Intal
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific inhaled cromolyn products they stock.

What should I know about inhaled cromolyn before using it?

Do not use inhaled cromolyn unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Use it as prescribed.

Do not share inhaled cromolyn with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.

Keep inhaled cromolyn out of the reach of children.

Inhaled cromolyn is a medicine used on a regular basis to help prevent asthma attacks. It is not a rescue treatment. It should not be used during an asthma attack, including status asthmaticus, when a quick response is needed.

This medicine is inhaled using a nebulizer. A nebulizer is a small machine that turns liquid medicine into a mist that you inhale through a mouthpiece or mask. Make sure that you or a caregiver understands how to properly prepare and use inhaled cromolyn. If you have any questions, talk to your health care provider.

Look at the medicine before using it. Make sure it is clear or pale yellow. Do not use it if it is discolored or has solid pieces in it. Do not mix inhaled cromolyn with other nebulizer medicines. If you have any questions, talk to your health care provider.

Do not stop or change your dosage of inhaled cromolyn (or other asthma medicines) on your own. Always check with your health care provider first. 

What should I tell my health care provider before using inhaled cromolyn?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if inhaled cromolyn is right for you.

Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

  • Heart rhythm problems
  • Kidney or liver problems

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how inhaled cromolyn could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if inhaled cromolyn passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does inhaled cromolyn interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between inhaled cromolyn and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect inhaled cromolyn.

Does inhaled cromolyn interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Inhaled cromolyn may interact with certain medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much inhaled cromolyn?

If you or someone else has used too much inhaled cromolyn, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of inhaled cromolyn?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses. 

It is important not to miss or skip scheduled doses of inhaled cromolyn. Missing doses may cause your asthma symptoms to come back or get worse.