Cromolyn and Nedocromil

What are other names for these medications?

Other names for cromolyn are cromolyn sodium and Intal. Nedocromil is also called Tilade.

What do these drugs do?

Cromolyn and nedocromil help prevent wheezing by making your child's airways not react as much to asthma triggers. Examples of triggers are pollens, animal danders, cold air, exercise, and environmental pollutants.

Cromolyn and nedocromil are long-term control medicines and do not immediately open the airways. They do not provide immediate relief for wheezing or an acute asthma attack.

For acute asthma attacks, your child will need a quick-relief medication. For more information see:

Bronchodilators, Short-acting Beta2-Agonist

Bronchodilators, Short-acting Anticholinergic

How are they taken?

Cromolyn can be taken with a nebulizer or metered-dose inhaler (MDI). Nedocromil is taken with an MDI.

What is the usual dosage?

Cromolyn or nedocromil is usually taken 3 to 4 times a day. Extra doses may be taken before exercise or exposure to allergens.

Your prescribed dosage of __________________ is 1 ampule (nebulizer) or _____ puffs (MDI) ______ times a day.

What side effects can this drug cause?

Side effects are rare. Your child may have a dry mouth, cough, and irritation of the throat. Some people complain about the taste of the nedocromil.

What special instructions should be followed?

To prevent symptoms of asthma, cromolyn or nedocromil should be taken regularly several times a day. They can be taken 15 minutes before exercise or exposure to cold air or allergens to prevent symptoms.