Dilution of Cromolyn Sodium Oral Solution
Each 5 mL ampule of cromolyn sodium oral solution should be diluted in a glass of water (approximately 120-240 mL) and consumed immediately.
Preparation Instructions
Based on the FDA drug label 1, each 5 mL ampule contains 100 mg of cromolyn sodium in purified water as a concentrate that requires dilution before oral administration.
Standard Dilution Method:
- Open the ampule and pour the entire 5 mL contents into a glass of water
- Use approximately 4-8 ounces (120-240 mL) of water for dilution
- Stir the solution to ensure complete mixing
- Drink the entire solution immediately - do not save for later use
Storage and Handling Considerations:
- The ampules should be stored at room temperature (68-77°F) and protected from light 1
- Keep ampules in their foil pouch until ready to use 1
- Do not use if the solution contains precipitate or becomes discolored 1
- The solution is unpreserved, so once opened and diluted, it must be consumed immediately
Important Clinical Context
Cromolyn sodium has limited therapeutic efficacy for most conditions. The evidence shows it has no therapeutic benefit for eosinophilic esophagitis 2 and is less effective than intranasal corticosteroids for allergic rhinitis 3. Its primary advantage is an excellent safety profile with minimal side effects 3, 4.
When Cromolyn May Be Considered:
- Allergic rhinitis in very young children or during pregnancy due to safety profile 3
- Prophylaxis before predictable allergen exposure 3
- Gastrointestinal symptoms in mastocytosis (diarrhea, abdominal pain) 4
The standard dosing is typically 100 mg (one ampule) four times daily, though higher doses have been studied in research settings 5.