About sodium cromoglicate

Sodium cromoglicate capsules are used to prevent the symptoms of food allergy. A food allergy is an abnormal reaction of your body's immune system to a particular food. Even a tiny amount of the food can cause an allergic reaction to take place, and this can range from a mild reaction to one that is severe and life-threatening. Foods that most commonly cause allergy are milk, eggs, nuts (especially peanuts), seeds, shellfish and other seafood, wheat, soya, and some fruits such as citrus and kiwi.

The only real treatment for food allergy is to avoid that food. Because it can be very difficult to avoid certain foods completely, sodium cromoglicate is an anti-allergic medicine which is prescribed to help prevent allergic reactions from occurring. It works by preventing the release of certain substances in your body which cause the allergic reaction.

Before taking sodium cromoglicate

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 taking 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 or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, such as herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take sodium cromoglicate

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack. The leaflet will give you more information about sodium cromoglicate capsules, and a full list of side-effects which you may experience from taking them.
• Take the capsules exactly as your doctor has told you. As a guide, the usual dose for an adult is 200 mg (two capsules) four times daily, and the usual dose for a child (aged 2-14 years) is 100 mg (one capsule) four times daily. Your dose however may be higher or lower than this. Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you what dose is right for you, and this dose will also be on the label of your pack.
• The capsules can be swallowed whole with a drink of water. Alternatively, if you prefer (or if  they have been prescribed for a young child), you can open up the capsules and mix the contents into a small amount of hot water. If you do this, make sure you add a little cold water before drinking it.
• Try to take each of your doses about 30-60 minutes before a meal.
• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time to take your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• It is very important that you follow the advice you have been given about which foods you must avoid.
• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can check on your progress.
• If you have also been prescribed an injection of adrenaline, it is important that you carry this with you at all times.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can sodium cromoglicate cause problems?

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.

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

How to store sodium cromoglicate

• 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