About sodium cromoglicate nasal spray

Sodium cromoglicate nasal spray can be used by adults and children to prevent the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. This is when the inside of the nose is inflamed and irritated. Common symptoms include: sneezing, a blocked or congested nose, a runny nose, and an itchy nose. It is caused by hay fever and other allergies.

Exposure to irritants such as pollen, pet fur, or house dust mite can cause the lining of the nose to become swollen and itchy, which in turn causes sneezing and other symptoms. Sodium cromoglicate makes some of the cells which are involved in an allergic reaction more stable; this prevents them from releasing chemicals which cause allergic reactions. By doing this, it helps to prevent the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Before using sodium cromoglicate nasal spray

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start using sodium cromoglicate, it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. This will give you a step-by-step guide of how to use the spray, and will also give you a full list of possible side-effects from using it.
• The usual dose is one spray into each nostril two to four times each day. It is important that you use the spray regularly even if your symptoms are well controlled. This is because it works by stopping the allergy from starting, rather than treating symptoms that are already there.
• If you are using the spray for hay fever, start using it about 2-3 weeks before the hay fever season starts. This is because starting before the pollen count rises will help to prevent symptoms from developing.

How to use sodium cromoglicate nasal spray

Before you use the spray for the first time, you need to 'prime' the bottle by pumping the spray into the air about three times until you see a fine mist.

• Blow your nose gently.
• Shake the bottle and remove the protective cap.
• Put one finger on each side of the nozzle and then insert the nozzle of the spray into one of your nostrils (take care to keep the bottle upright as you do this). Next, breathe in through your nose and press down on the nozzle once. Breathe out through your mouth.
• Use the spray in the other nostril by repeating the above step.
• Wipe the nozzle with a tissue and replace the protective cap. (If the nozzle becomes blocked, you can remove it from the bottle and rinse it under warm water.)

Can sodium cromoglicate nasal spray cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, many medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. Side-effects from treatment with sodium cromoglicate are rare, but it may cause irritation of the nose in some people. This usually eases after a day or so but, if it continues or becomes troublesome, let your doctor know.

How to store sodium cromoglicate nasal spray

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

Important information about all medicines