How do sodium cromoglicate eye drops work?
Sodium cromoglicate eye drops work by stopping the release of the natural substances in your body that can cause an allergic reaction (including histamine). They also reduce how severe your symptoms are when you're exposed to substances which you're allergic to.
How long does it take to work?
Sodium cromoglicate eye drops usually take a few days to start working, and a few weeks to work fully. Tell your doctor if you do not feel any better after using the eye drops for 2 weeks.
Can I use it for a long time?
You can use sodium cromoglicate eye drops for as long as you are in contact with the substance that triggers your allergy (use them during the hay fever season). Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you think you need to use them for longer than 2 weeks.
But do not use your bottle of eye drops for longer than 4 weeks. If it is open longer than that, throw it away and start a new one.
How effective is it for hay fever?
Sodium cromoglicate eye drops are often used if you keep getting symptoms, or your symptoms last a long time. You need to use them regularly for several weeks for them to work best.
If your symptoms do not get better, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
How do sodium cromoglicate eye drops compare to similar medicines?
Lodoxamide eye drops work in a similar way to sodium cromoglicate eye drops. There is not enough information to say whether one works better than the other.
Talk to your doctor if you think your medicine is not helping your symptoms.
What will happen if I stop taking it?
If you stop taking sodium cromoglicate eye drops, your symptoms may come back.
Will it affect my contraception?
Sodium cromoglicate eye drops do not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill and emergency contraception.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Sodium cromoglicate eye drops can cause blurry vision for a few minutes after using them. If this happens, do not drive, cycle or operate machinery straight away. Wait until your eyes feel OK again and your vision is back to normal.
Can I drink alcohol while using sodium cromoglicate eye drops?
Yes, it is OK to drink alcohol while using these eye drops.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while using sodium cromoglicate eye drops.
Can lifestyle changes help with hay fever?
It will help if you do not spend too much time outside if the pollen count is high.
Tips for when you're outside
- Do not cut grass or walk on grass.
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen getting into your eyes.
- Put Vaseline around your nostrils to help trap pollen.
- Shower and change your clothes after you have been outside to wash off pollen.
Tips for when you're inside
- Keep windows and doors shut as much as possible.
- Vacuum regularly and dust with a damp cloth.
- Do not keep fresh flowers in the house.
- Do not smoke or be around smoke as it makes hay fever symptoms worse.