Opticrom (Sodium Cromoglicate)

• Sodium cromoglicate is used to treat ocular allergic conditions by stabilising mast cells and limiting release of inflammatory mediators.
• Allergic conjunctivitis: reduces ocular itching, redness and tearing.
• Seasonal allergic conjunctivitis: provides relief during pollen seasons and reduces symptom severity.
• Mast cell‑mediated ocular inflammation: controls chronic inflammation and prevents flare‑ups.
• Vernal keratoconjunctivitis: helps control chronic inflammation and photophobia.
• Atopic keratoconjunctivitis: reduces corneal involvement and discomfort.

• Sodium cromoglicate stabilises mast cells by inhibiting calcium‑dependent degranulation, thereby preventing the release of histamine, leukotrienes, prostaglandins and other inflammatory mediators. This action limits the cascade of allergic inflammation in ocular tissues, resulting in reduced redness, itching and swelling without significant systemic absorption.

Adverse reactions are generally mild and related to local ocular tolerance.

Common Side Effects

• Transient eye irritation or burning sensation.
• Temporary blurred vision after instillation.
• Mild eye redness or hyperemia.
• Slight stinging or foreign‑body feeling.
• Taste disturbance if the solution drains through the nasolacrimal duct.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Allergic hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., swelling, rash, severe itching).
• Persistent eye pain or worsening inflammation.
• Corneal ulceration or keratitis.
• Vision loss or significant visual acuity change.
• Severe ocular edema or intraocular pressure rise.

Before using Opticrom, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess patient history: check for hypersensitivity to sodium cromoglicate or any excipients.
• Avoid use in active ocular infection without physician guidance.
• Do not administer while wearing contact lenses; remove lenses before instillation.
• Monitor for worsening symptoms or signs of an allergic reaction.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from light and moisture.

Sodium cromoglicate may interact with other ocular or systemic agents.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent use with other mast cell stabilisers may increase ocular irritation.
• Simultaneous administration with topical ocular anesthetics can potentiate discomfort.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Use with corticosteroid eye drops: monitor intra‑ocular pressure.
• Combination with certain contact lens solutions: may affect drug stability.
• Systemic antihistamines: may reduce perceived efficacy of ocular relief.