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cromolyn non-prescription

Generic Nasalcrom
Used for Allergic Rhinitis
Used for Allergic Rhinitis

NasalCrom (cromolyn) is a nasal spray that helps prevent and relieve symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis), such as runny, itchy, or stuffy nose. This medication belongs to the drug class called mast cell stabilizers. NasalCrom (cromolyn) is available over the counter for adults and children 2 years of age and older. It's sprayed once into each nostril and can be used 3 or 4 times a day. Side effects can include brief stinging or burning in the nose right after using and nosebleed.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 6, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostAlternativesLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
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What is NasalCrom (cromolyn)?

What is NasalCrom (cromolyn) used for?

  • Prevention and relief of nasal allergy symptoms (runny or itchy nose, sneezing, stuffy nose)

How NasalCrom (cromolyn) works

When you come into contact with an allergen, such as pollen or dust, your immune system turns on mast cells to help get rid of it. The mast cells send out chemicals like histamine into the body that can cause allergy symptoms.

NasalCrom (cromolyn) is a mast cell stabilizer. It stops mast cells from sending out chemicals like histamine. When the medication is sprayed into the nose, it helps prevent and relieve itchiness in your nose and other nasal allergy symptoms.

Are you looking for information on cromolyn eye drops, cromolyn inhalation solution, or cromolyn oral liquid (Gastrocrom) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsNasalCrom
Drug ClassMast cell stabilizer
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
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$16.55(save 58.40%)
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$6.89
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What are the side effects of NasalCrom (cromolyn)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Brief stinging or burning in the nose right after use
  • Nosebleeds (8%)
  • Headache (6%)
  • Ear infection (6%)
  • Sneezing right after use (5%)
  • Sore throat (5%)

Other Side Effects

  • Runny nose
  • Sinus infection
  • Asthma

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Allergic reaction: shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, hives, swelling of the mouth or throat

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of NasalCrom (cromolyn)

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Pros

Available over the counter

Can be used in children 2 years and older

Safe to use with other allergy medications

Few side effects

Doesn't worsen your stuffy nose after a few days of use ("rebound" nasal congestion)

thumbs-down

Cons

Takes at least 1 week of everyday use to notice symptom relief

Might need to use 3 to 4 times a day

Might cause stinging in your nose

Might not work as well as steroid nasal sprays and antihistamines

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for NasalCrom (cromolyn)

pharmacist

  • It can take about 1 to 2 weeks until you get the most symptom relief from NasalCrom (cromolyn). The medication works best to prevent allergy symptoms if you start using it every day at least 1 week before you think your allergies will start.

    • Before using NasalCrom (cromolyn) for the first time, spray into the air until a fine mist of liquid comes out. Once you see a fine mist, NasalCrom (cromolyn) is ready to use. This makes sure that you get a full dose of medication when you spray it into your nose for the first time.

      • Blow your nose before each time you use NasalCrom (cromolyn). This helps make sure that there's nothing blocking the medication from getting absorbed in your nose.

        • Review how to use nasal sprays like NasalCrom (cromolyn). Gently shake the bottle to mix the medication inside. Then, place the nozzle about a quarter- to half-inch into one of your nostril. Breathe in through your nose as you spray upward. Repeat in the other nostril.

          • If you haven't used NasalCrom (cromolyn) in 2 weeks, you'll need to prep the spray pump again before using. Spray into the air until you see a fine mist of liquid.

            • Wipe the nozzle clean after each time you use NasalCrom (cromolyn) and place the plastic cap back on the bottle. Don't give the bottle to anyone else to use. This helps prevent germs from spreading.

              • Stop using NasalCrom (cromolyn) and ask a healthcare professional (HCP) for guidance if you have new or worsening symptoms, no improvement within 2 weeks, or need to use the spray for more than 3 months. Your HCP can recommend other options that can help your nasal allergy symptoms.

                • Stop using NasalCrom (cromolyn) and get medical help if you have shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, hives, or swelling of the mouth or throat. These can be signs of a more serious situation, such as an allergic reaction.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about NasalCrom (cromolyn)

                  Can I get rebound congestion with NasalCrom (cromolyn)?
                  NasalCrom (cromolyn) doesn't cause rebound congestion — when your stuffy nose gets worse after you use a nasal spray that's meant to help relieve it for too long. Rebound congestion is more likely to happen with decongestant nasal sprays like Afrin (oxymetazoline).
                  Can I use NasalCrom (cromolyn) and Flonase together?
                  Yes, you can use NasalCrom (cromolyn) and fluticasone nasal spray (Flonase) at the same time. NasalCrom (cromolyn) works differently than fluticasone (Flonase) to prevent or relieve allergy nasal symptoms. NasalCrom (cromolyn) blocks chemicals that cause nasal irritation like itchiness and sneezing from being released in the body. Fluticasone (Flonase) is a steroid nasal spray that lowers swelling in your nasal passages and lessens how much mucus there is in the nose. Be sure to wait 15 minutes between each type of nasal spray if you use NasalCrom (cromolyn) and fluticasone (Flonase) together.
                  Is NasalCrom (cromolyn) a steroid or an antihistamine?
                  Neither. NasalCrom (cromolyn) is a mast cell stabilizer, which works in a different way than steroids and antihistamines. Steroid nasal sprays help lessen inflammation in the nasal passages. Antihistamines block the action of histamine, a chemical in the body that causes allergy symptoms. NasalCrom (cromolyn) blocks mast cells in your body from releasing chemicals like histamine that ultimately cause allergy symptoms.
                  Does NasalCrom (cromolyn) raise blood pressure?
                  No, NasalCrom (cromolyn) isn't known to raise blood pressure. This medication is generally considered safe for people with high blood pressure. Speak to your primary care provider if you notice that your blood pressure readings are higher than usual while you're using NasalCrom (cromolyn). Your primary care provider can discuss with you about your blood pressure.
                  Is NasalCrom (cromolyn) over the counter?
                  Yes, you can find NasalCrom (cromolyn) over the counter at your local pharmacy. This medication is typically located in the same aisle as other allergy medications such as antihistamines. Ask the pharmacy staff if you need help finding NasalCrom (cromolyn).
                  Is NasalCrom (cromolyn) safe during pregnancy?
                  Studies suggest that NasalCrom (cromolyn) is considered safe to use while pregnant. But it's always a good idea to speak to a healthcare professional before you use NasalCrom (cromolyn) if you're pregnant to make sure the medication is the most appropriate for relieving your symptoms.
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                  What are the risks and warnings for NasalCrom (cromolyn)?

                  NasalCrom (cromolyn) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Not appropriate to use for certain medical conditions

                  NasalCrom (cromolyn) might not be appropriate to relieve or treat certain symptoms or health problems. Ask a healthcare professional (HCP) before you use NasalCrom (cromolyn) if you have a fever; mucus that isn't clear in color; wheezing; or pain near your cheekbones, lower forehead, or between your eyes. Also don't use NasalCrom (cromolyn) for sinus infections, asthma, or cold symptoms. Speak with an HCP for recommendations for your symptoms or health condition.

                  dosage

                  NasalCrom (cromolyn) dosage forms

                  The average cost for 1 nasal spray of 200 metered sprays of 5.2mg/spray of NasalCrom (cromolyn) is $6.89 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 58.4% off the average retail price of $16.55.
                  nasal spray
                  Nasal spray
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  200 metered sprays of 5.2mg/spray1 nasal spray$6.89$6.89

                  Typical dosing for NasalCrom (cromolyn)

                  Each spray contains 5.2 mg of cromolyn.

                  • Adults and children 2 years or older: The typical dose is 1 spray into each nostril every 4 to 6 hours. You can use the spray up to 6 times a day.

                  • Children under 2 years of age: Don't use unless instructed by your child's pediatrician or other healthcare professional.

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                  How much does NasalCrom (cromolyn) cost?

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                  NasalCrom (cromolyn) (generic)
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                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to NasalCrom (cromolyn)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of NasalCrom (cromolyn). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  NasalCrom (cromolyn)
                  Used for:

                  • Prevention and relief of nasal allergy symptoms (runny or itchy nose, sneezing, stuffy nose)

                  $6.89 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Fluticasone nasal spray
                  Used for:

                  • Congestion

                  • Runny nose

                  • Sneezing

                  • Itchy nose

                  • Itchy, watery eyes

                  $14.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Azelastine nasal spray
                  Used for:

                  • Seasonal allergy symptoms related to the nose

                  • Year-round allergy symptoms related to the nose - azelastine 0.15% spray only

                  • Runny or stuffy nose that isn't caused by allergies - azelastine 0.1% spray only

                  $15.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. (2024). Mast cells defined.

                  Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (1997). Application Number: 75-702 Approved Draft Labeling.

                  Lee, C. E. (2000). Medical Officer Review. Division of Pulmonary and Allergy Drug Products.

                  View All References (4)

                  Prestige Brands Holdings, Inc. (2023). NasalCrom- cromolyn sodium spray, metered [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  SafeMedication. (n.d.). How to use nasal pump sprays.

                  Sur, D. K. C., et al. (2015). Treatment of allergic rhinitis. American Family Physician.

                  Yawn, B., et al. (2007). Treating asthma and comorbid allergic rhinitis in pregnancy. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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