Histalyn Eye Drops 20mg Drops

Sodium cromoglycate (cromoglicate) is an anti-allergy medicine. In the eye, it stops cells from releasing the natural substances that trigger an allergic reaction.

The eye drops are used to prevent and treat:

• allergic conjunctivitis, both seasonal (such as hay fever) and year-round
• vernal keratoconjunctivitis, a more severe eye allergy that can cause intense itching, light sensitivity and bumps under the upper eyelid

Use the drops as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, or as the pack says.

• Wash your hands. Tilt your head back, gently pull down the lower eyelid and let the drops fall inside without the dropper touching your eye.
• Close your eye for a moment, wipe away any extra liquid and replace the cap straight away.
• Keep using the drops regularly for as long as advised, even when your eyes feel better.
• If you miss a dose, use it when you remember unless the next dose is nearly due. Never use a double dose.
• Remove soft contact lenses before using the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in; do not wear soft lenses during treatment if the leaflet says so.

Side effects are usually mild and include:

• brief stinging or burning when the drops go in
• blurred vision for a short time after use
• mild eye irritation

Stop using the drops and see a doctor as soon as possible if:

• itching, redness or swelling of the eye or eyelid gets worse
• you get a rash, swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing or swallowing

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before using it if you:

• have had an allergic reaction to sodium cromoglycate or any ingredient of the drops
• wear contact lenses (many drops contain benzalkonium chloride, which can discolour soft lenses)
• have dry eyes or problems with the surface of the eye, as the preservative can cause irritation
• are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding

Keep out of the sight and reach of children. After opening, do not store above 25°C and throw the bottle away 4 weeks after opening, even if some is left.

Driving: your vision may blur just after using the drops. Do not drive or use machines until you can see clearly.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: ask your doctor or pharmacist before use.

See a doctor if your eyes are getting worse, are painful or your vision changes.