Representative Names: Gastrocrom
Active Ingredients: Cromolyn
Generic Available: No
Rx Status: Available by prescription only

What is/are Gastrocrom (Back to top)
CROMOLYN SODIUM is used to treat the symptoms of mastocytosis. It helps to relieve stomach problems like diarrhea, pain, nausea, and vomiting. It also helps relieve flushing, headache, and itching. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • liver disease
  • kidney disease
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to cromolyn, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take one-half hour before meals and at bedtime. Open the foil pouch and take out the ampule(s) you need for your dose. Open the ampule by twisting off the tab. Squeeze the medicine into a glass of water. Do not mix with other drinks or food. Stir well. Drink all of the mixture. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • breathing problems
  • burning, numbness, or tingling
  • changes in emotions or moods
  • discolored mouth or tongue
  • dizziness
  • fever
  • redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
  • seizure
  • trouble swallowing
  • unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • bad taste
  • diarrhea
  • headache
  • increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • muscle aches
  • nausea, vomiting
  • stomach upset, gas
  • trouble sleeping

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Your doctor may adjust your dose for best results. Talk to your doctor before you change your dose or stop taking this medicine.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep in the foil pouch until ready to use. Do not use if medicine is cloudy, has solid pieces, or is discolored. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:April 11, 2008

©2008 Express Scripts, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
These materials are the property of Express Scripts, Inc. and are protected by copyright, trademark, and other laws. Permission for use is granted only for personal, noncommercial purposes.

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