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Overview: Cromolyn is commonly used to treat mastocytosis, a condition where too many mast cells build up in the body, causing symptoms such as diarrhea, flushing, and itching. The most common side effects include headache, diarrhea, itchiness, nausea, and muscle aches. Cromolyn comes as a liquid that you stir into water and drink.

Uses

What is cromolyn used for?

Cromolyn is commonly used for mastocytosis, which is a condition where too many mast cells build up in your skin and organs.

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

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

How does cromolyn work (mechanism of action)?

Cromolyn works by preventing mast cells (a type of white blood cell) from releasing histamine and other substances that lead to inflammation. It helps control symptoms by acting directly on mast cells. By stabilizing these cells, cromolyn can help improve symptoms of mastocytosis, such as diarrhea, flushing, and itching.

How is cromolyn supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Gastrocrom

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 100 mg/5 mL oral concentrate

How should I store cromolyn?

Cromolyn should be stored at room temperature, between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C). Protect cromolyn from light by keeping it in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of cromolyn?

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

  • Headache
  • Diarrhea, stomach pain, or nausea
  • Itchiness or rash
  • Irritability
  • Muscle aches

There may be other side effects of 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 cromolyn?

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

Severe Allergic Reactions. Cromolyn may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking 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

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use cromolyn?

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

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

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

What should I know about cromolyn before using it?

Do not take cromolyn unless it has been prescribed to you by a health care provider. Take it as prescribed.

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

Keep cromolyn out of the reach of children.

Cromolyn comes as a clear liquid in small containers (ampules). For each dose, you will open the number of ampules prescribed, then stir the liquid into a glass of plain water. Drink all of the water right away.

Do not take cromolyn if it looks discolored, cloudy, or has solid pieces in it. Do not inhale or inject it.

Tell your health care provider if your symptoms do not get better within two to three weeks of starting cromolyn treatment. Do not stop or change your dosage of cromolyn on your own. Always check with your health care provider first.

What should I tell my health care provider before using 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 cromolyn is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

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

  • Kidney problems
  • Liver problems

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

Interactions

Does cromolyn interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between cromolyn and foods or drinks. Take cromolyn 30 minutes before meals.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect inhaled cromolyn.

Does cromolyn interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

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 cromolyn?

If you or someone else has used too much 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 cromolyn?

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

It is important not to miss or skip doses of cromolyn. Missing doses can cause it to not work as well for managing your symptoms.