From the Guidelines
Cromolyn sodium eye drops are a recommended treatment for allergic conjunctivitis, particularly for prophylactic or longer-term treatment of chronic ocular allergies. The standard dosage is 1-2 drops in each affected eye 4-6 times daily 1. Begin using these drops before allergy season starts for best results, as they work preventatively by stabilizing mast cells in the eye and preventing them from releasing histamine and other inflammatory chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. Unlike some other eye drops, cromolyn doesn't provide immediate relief but works best with consistent use over time, typically taking 1-2 weeks to reach full effectiveness 1.
Some key points to consider when using cromolyn sodium eye drops include:
- They are safe for most people, including children over 4 years old 1
- They can be used alongside oral antihistamines if needed for more severe allergies 1
- Side effects are minimal but may include temporary burning or stinging upon application 1
- If symptoms persist after 2 weeks of regular use, consult an eye care professional as you may need a different treatment approach 1
It's also important to note that oral antihistamines may induce or worsen dry eye syndrome and impair the tear film’s protective barrier, and concomitant use of cooled preservative-free artificial tears may alleviate coexisting tear deficiency and dilute allergens and inflammatory mediators on the ocular surface 1. In severe cases, topical cyclosporine or tacrolimus can be considered 1.
Overall, cromolyn sodium eye drops are a effective and safe treatment option for allergic conjunctivitis, and should be considered as a first-line treatment for patients with chronic ocular allergies 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Cromolyn Sodium Ophthalmic Solution USP, 4% is indicated in the treatment of vernal keratoconjunctivitis, vernal conjunctivitis, and vernal keratitis. The role of cromolyn (sodium cromoglicate) eyedrops in treating allergic conjunctivitis is to provide symptomatic relief from itching, tearing, redness, and discharge associated with vernal conjunctivitis 2.
- The medication is administered as 1 or 2 drops in each eye 4 to 6 times a day at regular intervals 2.
- Symptomatic response to therapy is usually evident within a few days, but longer treatment for up to six weeks is sometimes required 2.
From the Research
Role of Cromolyn (Sodium Cromoglicate) Eyedrops
- Cromolyn (sodium cromoglicate) eyedrops are used to treat allergic conjunctivitis by stabilizing mast cell membranes and preventing the release of histamine and other biochemical mediators 3.
- They are effective in relieving the subjective symptoms and clinical signs of allergic eye diseases, including hayfever, acute allergic and chronic allergic conjunctivitis, and vernal keratoconjunctivitis 3.
- Cromolyn sodium eyedrops have been shown to be very effective in relieving the symptoms of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) and perennial allergic conjunctivitis (PAC) 4, 3.
- They may decrease the need for supplementary oral antihistamines and ocular corticosteroids, thus decreasing the incidence of steroid-induced ocular side effects 3.
Comparison with Other Treatments
- Cromolyn sodium eyedrops have been compared to other treatments, including nedocromil sodium, levocabastine, and fluorometholone, and have been shown to be effective in relieving symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis 4, 5.
- In some studies, cromolyn sodium eyedrops have been shown to have a similar efficacy to other treatments, such as nedocromil sodium and levocabastine 4, 5.
- However, cromolyn sodium eyedrops may have a slower onset of action compared to other treatments, such as epinastine and olopatadine 5.