3. Nedocromil

Nedocromil


  • Use this inhaler at regular intervals. It helps prevent asthma symptoms.
  • Nedocromil is not a reliever. Your doctor will prescribe another inhaler for you to use if you get an asthma attack.
  • It is particularly important that asthma is well controlled if you are pregnant. Make sure your doctor knows if you are expecting or trying for a baby.
Type of medicine Anti-asthmatic
Used for Prevention of symptoms of asthma in adults and children over 6 years of age
Also called Tilade®
Available as Inhaler

It is not fully understood how nedocromil works. It can be used to help prevent the symptoms of asthma, especially asthma triggered by allergies.

Before using nedocromil make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
  • Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
  • Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and make sure you know how to use this inhaler properly. If you are not sure, ask your nurse, doctor or pharmacist to show you.
  • Use your inhaler regularly for maximum benefit. Your doctor will tell you how many times to use it each day.
  • Rinse your mouth out with water after each dose and spit out the water used. This will help prevent any hoarseness or irritation to your throat.
  • Do not stop using this inhaler abruptly as this can cause your symptoms to return suddenly.
  • Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. Your doctor will want to review your condition and your dose of nedocromil.
  • If after first using this inhaler your breathing becomes worse or you suddenly start to wheeze, stop using the inhaler and let your doctor know straight away so that you can be given an alternative treatment without delay.
  • Nedocromil is not a reliever, it does not work quickly enough to relieve an asthma attack that has already started. Your doctor will prescribe another inhaler for you to use if you get an attack.
  • If you find that your asthma symptoms are getting worse or that you need to use a reliever inhaler more regularly, contact your doctor or nurse for advice straight away.
  • Do not smoke. Smoking causes severe irritation and damage to the lungs. It will make your condition worse and will reduce the beneficial effects of your medication.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects What can I do if I experience this
Feeling or being sick, indigestion, abdominal pain Stick to simple foods - avoid rich or spicy foods
Headache Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller
Bitter taste, hoarseness, throat irritation This may occur if your mouth has not been rinsed adequately after using nedocromil - make sure you rinse your mouth out with water after each dose. In the case of a child, brushing the child's teeth may help

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking or using. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
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Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Tilade® CFC Free Inhaler; Manufacturer's PIL, Tilade® CFC Free Inhaler, sanofi-aventis, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2007.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 23/03/2011 Document ID: 3628  Version: 23 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

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