Intal (cromolyn sodium inhalation) is a medication used to prevent asthma flare-ups and bronchospasms, which are characterized by trouble breathing and wheezing. According to Drugs.com, it is an anti-inflammatory medication that prevents your cells from releasing histamine, an inflammatory agent naturally found in your body. Typically, Intal is administered through a nebulizer (a machine that turns the medication into an inhalation mist), and the medication is inhaled three to four times daily.
Prevalent Side Effects
Intal can cause a whole range of common side effects. According to Drugs.com, it can cause nausea, joint swelling or pain, nasal congestion, headache, coughing, a rash and itching. Because Intal is frequently inhaled throughout the day, it can cause throat irritation, wheezing, dry mouth or nose, and hoarseness. Intal's other prevalent side effects include elevated eye pressures, glaucoma, nausea, eye tearing, and changes in the senses of taste and smell. It is best you tell your doctor when you have these manifestations, especially when they occur for longer than three days.
Serious Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Intal can cause the following serious side effects: trouble breathing, edema (swelling) of the throat or tongue, and wheezing. The National Library of Medicine indicates that Intal can cause swelling of the parotid gland (a salivary gland located along facial cheeks), urinary frequency, hemoptysis (condition in which you cough up blood), nephrosis (a kidney disease in which you have excessive amounts of protein in your urine) and anemia (reduced red blood cells). It can also cause pericarditis (an inflammation along the outer layer of your heart), vertigo, muscle pain and photodermatitis (skin disorder in which your skin is extremely sensitive to sun exposure).
Miscellaneous Concerns
Avoid Intal if you are allergic to cromolyn sodium or its components. Serious and potentially lethal side effects such as difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of your face, throat and tongue can occur.
Drugs.com says you should inform your doctor if you have liver, kidney or heart disease. Intal can worsen these chronic conditions and provoke the aforementioned effects.
It is not known if Intal can go into your breast milk or pass your placental barrier during pregnancy. However, notify your doctor when you find out you are pregnant or want to breastfeed.
Tell your doctor if you take isopreteronol and any over-the-counter or prescription medications. Intal and these medications may not mix well and subsequently cause the aforementioned effects.
Member Comments