Nedocromil Sodium

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Alocril

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Alocril

USES: This medication is used to treat itching eyes due to allergies (allergic conjunctivitis). This medication is not recommended for use in children less than 3 years of age.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. Do not wear contact lenses during treatment with this medication. For best results, this medication should be used routinely, usually in each eye twice daily at evenly spaced times (e.g., every 12 hours), or as directed by your doctor. Continue to use this medication, as prescribed, even when allergic symptoms are no longer present. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Do not place drops directly in the center of the eye (the area just over the pupil) because it may be very sensitive. Hold the dropper directly over the eye and instill the prescribed number of drops in the lower eyelid. Blink a few times to make sure the eye is covered with the medication. Close your eye and remove any excess medication with a clean tissue. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use and keep the cap tightly closed. Do not use this medication with any other eye medication unless directed by your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: Burning, stinging, or irritation of the eye(s); headache, stuffy nose, or bad taste in the mouth may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any of these serious side effects:

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including any allergies (especially allergies to eye medications), and of contact lens use. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially any other eye medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store in the refrigerator between 36 and 77 degrees F (2 to 25 degrees C). Keep tightly closed and out of the reach of children.