Are you experiencing red, itchy patches on your body? Or are you constantly suffering from stomach aches, nausea, and diarrhea? If one or more of these symptoms persist, it could be due to a condition called Mastocytosis . So, a special medicine that doctors recommend to control these symptoms is Cromolyn Solution. Today, we will talk briefly about this medicine, how to use it, and everything you need to know.
What is Cromolyn? What does it do?
Simply put, Mastocytosis is a condition caused by the overproduction of a type of cell in our body called ' mast cells'. These cells are part of our immune system. But when they become too numerous, the chemicals they release are what cause the symptoms mentioned above, such as stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, flushing, skin rashes, and headaches.
Cromolyn belongs to a class of drugs called mast cell stabilizers. This medication works by controlling overactive mast cells and reducing their release of chemicals that cause symptoms. This means that it controls the symptoms rather than curing the disease.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before your doctor prescribes Cromolyn, it is very important to give him a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell him about these things in particular.
- If you have kidney disease .
- If you have liver disease .
- If you have any allergies to Cromolyn or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a baby .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medication is suitable for you or not and what dosage to give.
How exactly should I use this medicine?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly. Remember these steps carefully.
1. Take it on time: This medicine is usually taken half an hour before main meals and at bedtime . Try to take it exactly at the time your doctor tells you.
2. Prepare the ampoule: The medicine comes in a foil packet. Open it and take out the number of ampoules you need for your single dose. Then twist the tab on the top of the ampoule and break it open.
3. Mix with water: Now squeeze the liquid inside the ampoule completely into some water in a glass .
4. Stir well and drink: Stir the medicine with a spoon until it dissolves well in the water, and drink the entire mixture at once.
Very important: This medicine should only be mixed with water. Never mix it with fruit drinks, milk, tea, or any other beverage or food.
If given to children:
Doctors recommend this medicine even for children over 2 years of age under certain circumstances. However, there are special precautions involved. Therefore, if you are giving this medicine to a child, talk to your doctor carefully and get advice.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
What if I apply too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not delay. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What are the possible side effects of taking the medicine?
Like any medicine, some people can experience side effects when taking Cromolyn. However, not everyone gets them. It is important to be aware of these.
| Type of side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat (may cause difficulty breathing). If you notice any of these, stop taking the medicine immediately and seek medical advice. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Digestive system problems | Diarrhea, Nausea, Stomach pain |
| Other common disorders | Headache, muscle pain, irritability |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned on this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
How to store the medicine?
- Keep away from children: This is the most important thing. Do not keep medicines where children can get them.
- Store at room temperature: Store between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius. Protect from excessive heat and light.
- Keep the medicine in the foil packet: Keep the medicine ampoule in the foil packet until ready to use.
- Discard after expiration: Do not use any medicine that has passed its expiration date. Also, if the medicine is cloudy, has powdery particles in it, or has changed color, do not use it and discard it.
Take-Home Message
- Cromolyn is a medication that controls the symptoms of Mastocytosis. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time.
- This medicine should be mixed with water only . Avoid mixing it with other drinks or food.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, seek medical advice immediately.
- Avoid changing the dosage or stopping the medication without talking to your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
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