Cromolyn Sodium Oral Inhalation

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Brand name(s): Intal

How should this medicine be used?

Cromolyn comes as powder-filled capsules and solution to take by mouth and an aerosol to inhale by mouth. It is usually inhaled three or four times a day to prevent asthma attacks or within an hour before activities to prevent breathing difficulties caused by exercise.

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use cromolyn exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

It may take up to 4 weeks for cromolyn to work. You should use it regularly for it to be effective. If your symptoms have not improved after 4 weeks, tell your doctor.

Cromolyn is used with a special inhaler. Before you use cromolyn inhalation for the first time, read the instructions for your device. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist to demonstrate the proper technique. Practice using your inhalation device while in his or her presence.

Do not swallow the capsules. Do not remove a capsule from its foil until you are ready to use it, and handle it as little as possible. Moisture from your hands will soften it.

To use the inhaler, follow these steps:

• Shake the inhaler well.
• Remove the protective cap.
• Exhale (breathe out) as completely as possible through your nose while keeping your mouth shut.
• Open Mouth Technique: Open your mouth wide, and place the open end of the mouthpiece about 1 or 2 inches from your mouth.Closed Mouth Technique: Place the open end of the mouthpiece well into your mouth, past your front teeth. Close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece.
• Take a slow, deep breath through the mouthpiece and, at the same time, press down on the container to spray the medication into your mouth. Be sure that the mist goes into your throat and is not blocked by your teeth or tongue. Adults giving the treatment to young children may hold the child's nose closed to be sure that the medication goes into the child's throat.
• Hold your breath for 5-10 seconds, remove the inhaler, and exhale slowly through your nose or mouth. If you take 2 puffs, wait 2 minutes and shake the inhaler well before taking the second puff.
• Replace the protective cap on the inhaler.

If you have difficulty getting the medication into your lungs, a spacer (a special device that attaches to the inhaler) may help; ask your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist.

Last Revised: 01/01/2002

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