What is this medication for?
Nedocromil belongs to a family of medicines called mast cell stabililizers. When we encounter something that we are allergic to, mast cells release chemicals that cause the allergic symptoms that we experience. By preventing the release of these chemicals from the mast cells, nedocromil can help to relieve the symptoms associated with itchy eyes caused by allergies, also known as allergic conjunctivitis. Relief from these symptoms is usually felt within 15 minutes of using the eye drops.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Alocril® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual recommended dose for adults and children 3 years of age and older is 1 or 2 drops in each eye twice a day at regular intervals. Avoid touching the tip of the dropper to any surface, including the eye. If you wear soft contact lenses, remove them before using the eye drops, and wait at least 15 minutes before putting your contact lenses back in. Hard contact lenses must also be removed before the drops are put into the eye, but they may be put back into the eye right after the drops are used.
This medication is safe to use at the same time as other eye drops. The eye drop bottle should only by used for up to 28 days after opening. It is important to use the eye drops on a regular basis while exposure to the allergen is still present (e.g., throughout the pollen season).
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
