A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Sodium cromoglycate belongs to the group of medications called anti-allergy medications. The capsules are used to treat food allergies and work by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation within the stomach and intestines.
The usual recommended adult dose of this medication is 2 capsules 4 times daily before meals. For children 2 to 14 years of age, the usual recommended dose is one capsule 4 times daily before meals. You doctor may suggest a higher dose if your symptoms are not controlled by the usual recommended dose. The maximum dose is 40 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. Once your symptoms are controlled, your doctor may suggest that you decrease your dose until the lowest dose to control your symptoms is reached. 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. Swallow the capsules whole or dissolve the contents of the capsule(s) in a small amount of very hot water and dilute with cold water to drink. It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you are not able to avoid the food that you are allergic to such as when you are at a restaurant, you may be able to take a dose of this medication 15 minutes before the meal. 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. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children. Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
The active ingredient in Nalcrom is sodium cromoglycate.
Kidney function: If you have reduced kidney function or kidney disease, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. You may require a lower dose of this medication. Life-threatening food allergies: If you have a life-threatening food allergy, you should not rely on this medication for protection. Always carry your epinephrine injection to treat life-threatening reactions. Liver function: If you have reduced liver function or liver disease, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. You may require a lower dose of this medication. Stopping medication: Do not stop taking this medication suddenly once your symptoms have improved. You will likely need to continue taking this medication to control your symptoms. Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately. Breast-feeding: It is not known if sodium cromoglycate passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking this medication, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding. Children: The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children less than 2 years of age.
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor. The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time. Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects. • abdominal discomfort • cough • diarrhea • difficulty sleeping • headache • joint pain • nausea • sneezing • unpleasant taste • vomiting Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur: • itchy skin • skin rash Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur: • symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue or throat) Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.