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Sodium cromoglicate 2% - 10ml Allergy Eye Drops (brand may vary)

Sodium cromoglicate 2% - 10ml Allergy Eye Drops (brand may vary)

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  • ✔️ Relieves itchy, red, watery eyes caused by allergic conjunctivitis
  • ✔️ Mast cell stabiliser — targets the root cause of eye allergies
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over
  • ✔️ Start before pollen season for maximum preventative effect
  • ✔️ 10ml bottle provides a full month of allergy season coverage

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Are Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops Right for Your Allergy Eyes?

 

If your eyes turn red, itchy, and watery every time pollen season arrives — or whenever you're near a cat — you're not alone. Allergic conjunctivitis affects millions of people in the UK, and it can make daily life genuinely miserable. Sodium cromoglicate eye drops are a well-established, clinically proven option for managing these symptoms, available over the counter without a prescription. At just £5.99 for a 10ml bottle, they offer an accessible and affordable route to relief. You can browse our full range of eye care products if you're looking for additional support alongside these drops.

Each bottle contains sodium cromoglicate 2% w/v as the active ingredient. This concentration has been used in the UK for decades and is recognised by the NHS as a first-line treatment for allergic eye conditions. The drops are suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over, making them a practical household option during hay fever season.

 

How Do Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops Work in the Eye?

 

Sodium cromoglicate belongs to a class of medicines called mast cell stabilisers. Rather than blocking histamine after it's already been released — as antihistamines do — it works upstream, preventing the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators in the first place. Think of it as closing the gate before the flood, rather than mopping up afterwards.

  • Allergens (such as pollen or pet dander) trigger mast cells in the conjunctiva to degranulate
  • Sodium cromoglicate stabilises the mast cell membrane, inhibiting degranulation
  • This prevents the release of histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins
  • The result is a reduction in itching, redness, watering, and swelling of the eye

Because it works preventatively, regular use is key. You may not notice dramatic results after a single dose — but with consistent use over a few days, most people find their symptoms become significantly more manageable.

 

Who Should Use These Allergy Eye Drops?

 

These drops are designed for anyone experiencing the classic symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. Whether your triggers are seasonal (like grass or tree pollen) or perennial (like dust mites or animal fur), sodium cromoglicate eye drops can help. They're particularly useful if you find oral antihistamines don't fully address your eye symptoms, or if you prefer a targeted, localised treatment. If you're managing broader hay fever symptoms too, our allergy and hay fever collection has a range of complementary options.

  • Adults and children aged 6 years and over with allergic conjunctivitis
  • People with seasonal hay fever whose eye symptoms are prominent
  • Those with perennial allergic conjunctivitis triggered by year-round allergens
  • Patients who prefer a preservative-free or topical approach to eye allergy management

 

How Do These Drops Compare to Antihistamine Eye Drops?

 

Feature Sodium Cromoglicate 2% Eye Drops Antihistamine Eye Drops (e.g. Ketotifen)
Mechanism Mast cell stabiliser — prevents histamine release Histamine H1-receptor antagonist — blocks histamine
Speed of action Slower — requires regular use over several days Faster — can relieve symptoms within minutes
Best for Preventative, ongoing allergy management Acute, rapid symptom relief
Age suitability 6 years and over Varies by product — check individual labelling
OTC availability Yes Yes

 

How Should You Store These Eye Drops and Are They Clinically Suitable for You?

 

Store your bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of reach of children. Once opened, discard the bottle after 28 days — even if there is solution remaining. Using drops beyond this point risks contamination and potential eye infection. Do not use the drops if the solution appears cloudy or discoloured.

Clinically, sodium cromoglicate eye drops are well tolerated by most patients. However, if you have a known hypersensitivity to sodium cromoglicate or any of the excipients, you should not use this product. Always remove soft contact lenses before instilling the drops and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting them. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or GP before use.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Sodium Cromoglicate 2% Allergy Eye Drops 10ml specifications
Treatment category Allergic conjunctivitis / Ocular allergy
Active ingredient Sodium cromoglicate 2% w/v
Mechanism of action Mast cell stabiliser
Drug class Cromone
Preparation Sterile aqueous eye drops solution
Route of administration Ophthalmic (topical)
Strengths 2% w/v
Pack size 10ml
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 years and over
Effective for Itchy, red, watery eyes due to allergic conjunctivitis

Specifications of Sodium Cromoglicate 2% Allergy Eye Drops 10ml

 

What Are Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops and What Are They Used For?

 

Sodium cromoglicate 2% eye drops are a topical ophthalmic medicine used to treat and prevent the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis — the inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids) triggered by allergens. Common triggers include grass pollen, tree pollen, house dust mites, mould spores, and animal dander. Symptoms typically include itching, redness, watering, and a gritty or burning sensation in the eyes.

The NHS recognises sodium cromoglicate as an appropriate treatment for allergic eye conditions. It is available over the counter and does not require a prescription for adults or children aged 6 and over. It is not a treatment for eye infections, dry eye syndrome, or any other non-allergic eye condition.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using These Eye Drops?

 

Before you start using sodium cromoglicate eye drops, there are some important things to be aware of. Do not use these drops if any of the following apply to you:

  • You are allergic to sodium cromoglicate or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • You are wearing soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses — remove lenses before use and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting
  • You have an active eye infection — treat the infection first and consult your GP
  • You are under 6 years of age — safety and efficacy have not been established in younger children

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before using these drops if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. While sodium cromoglicate is poorly absorbed systemically when applied to the eye, it is always best to seek professional advice during pregnancy.

Drug interactions: No clinically significant interactions with other medicines have been reported for topically applied sodium cromoglicate eye drops. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments, allow at least 5 minutes between applications and apply ointments last.

  • No significant interactions with oral antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids
  • If using multiple eye preparations, space them by at least 5 minutes

 

How Should You Use Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

 

Using eye drops correctly makes a real difference to how well they work. Follow these steps each time you apply your drops:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle
  2. Remove soft contact lenses if you wear them
  3. Tilt your head back slightly and look up at the ceiling
  4. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket
  5. Hold the dropper tip close to your eye without touching it, and squeeze one to two drops into the pocket
  6. Close your eye gently for one to two minutes — do not blink rapidly or squeeze your eye shut
  7. Press lightly on the inner corner of your eye (the lacrimal punctum) to reduce systemic absorption
  8. Repeat in the other eye if both are affected
  9. Replace the cap immediately after use
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Allergic conjunctivitis Adults 1–2 drops per affected eye 4 times daily
Allergic conjunctivitis Children (6 years and over) 1–2 drops per affected eye 4 times daily
Allergic conjunctivitis Children under 6 Not recommended

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of These Eye Drops?

 

Like all medicines, sodium cromoglicate eye drops can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the eye.

Common side effects:

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation
  • Temporary blurred vision — avoid driving or operating machinery until vision clears
  • Mild eye irritation or watering shortly after application

Less common side effects:

  • Redness of the eye or eyelid
  • Itching or a feeling of something in the eye
  • Swelling of the eyelid (rare)

If you experience a severe allergic reaction — including significant swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash — stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention. This type of reaction is very rare with topical sodium cromoglicate.

If your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days of regular use, stop using the drops and consult your pharmacist or GP. You can also explore our broader allergy and hay fever range for additional treatment options.

 

How Should You Store Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place — do not refrigerate unless the product label specifically instructs you to
  • Keep the bottle away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton
  • Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if solution remains
  • Do not use if the solution appears cloudy, discoloured, or contains visible particles
  • Do not share your eye drops with anyone else — this risks spreading infection

Proper storage and timely disposal are important for both safety and efficacy. Writing the date of opening on the bottle label is a simple habit that helps you keep track. If you have any questions about storage or disposal, your local pharmacist will be happy to advise. For a wider selection of eye health products, visit our eye care collection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy sodium cromoglicate eye drops online in the UK?

You can buy sodium cromoglicate eye drops online in the UK directly from Cured Pharmacy at £5.99 for a 10ml bottle. They are available over the counter without a prescription and are dispatched from a GPhC-registered UK pharmacy. Browse our full eye care collection for related products.

How do sodium cromoglicate eye drops work in the body?

Sodium cromoglicate works as a mast cell stabiliser, preventing the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals from mast cells in the conjunctiva when they encounter an allergen. This stops the allergic cascade before it starts, reducing itching, redness, and watering. It is most effective when used regularly rather than on an as-needed basis.

How do I use sodium cromoglicate eye drops step by step?

Wash your hands, remove contact lenses, tilt your head back, and gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket. Squeeze one to two drops into the pocket without touching the dropper tip to your eye, then close your eye gently for one to two minutes. Repeat in the other eye if needed, and replace the cap immediately after use.

How long does it take for sodium cromoglicate eye drops to work?

Unlike antihistamine eye drops, sodium cromoglicate does not provide instant relief — it typically takes several days of regular use before you notice the full benefit. For seasonal allergies such as hay fever, it is advisable to start using the drops a few days before your expected allergen exposure. Consistent, four-times-daily use gives the best results.

What is the correct dose of sodium cromoglicate eye drops for adults?

The standard adult dose is one to two drops instilled into each affected eye four times daily. Doses should be spaced evenly throughout the day — for example, morning, midday, late afternoon, and evening. Do not exceed this frequency unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Can children use sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

Yes — sodium cromoglicate eye drops are suitable for children aged 6 years and over, at the same dose as adults (one to two drops per affected eye, four times daily). They are not recommended for children under 6 years of age, as safety and efficacy have not been established in this age group. Always supervise children when applying eye drops.

Can I use sodium cromoglicate eye drops with contact lenses?

You should not instil sodium cromoglicate eye drops whilst wearing soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses, as the drops may be absorbed by the lens material and cause irritation. Remove your lenses before applying the drops and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting them. Hard (rigid gas-permeable) lenses should also be removed prior to use — check with your optician if unsure.

What are the side effects of sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

The most commonly reported side effects are a brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after instillation and temporary blurred vision, both of which usually resolve within a few minutes. Less commonly, some people experience mild redness, itching, or a sensation of something in the eye. Serious allergic reactions are very rare but require immediate medical attention if they occur.

What happens if I miss a dose of sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

If you miss a dose, apply the drops as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, in which case simply skip the missed one and carry on as normal. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. Consistent use is important for these drops to work effectively, so try to build them into your daily routine.

Who is eligible to use sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

These drops are suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over who have allergic conjunctivitis caused by hay fever, dust mites, pet dander, or other allergens. They are not suitable for people with a known allergy to sodium cromoglicate, those with active eye infections, or children under 6. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist or GP before use.

What are the alternatives to sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

Alternatives include antihistamine eye drops such as ketotifen (e.g. Zaditen), which act more quickly but may need to be used less frequently. Olopatadine is another option that combines antihistamine and mast cell stabilising properties. For broader hay fever management, you might also consider oral antihistamines or nasal corticosteroid sprays — explore our allergy and hay fever range for more options.

How long can you use sodium cromoglicate eye drops for?

You can use sodium cromoglicate eye drops throughout the allergy season or for as long as your symptoms persist. There is no evidence of harm from long-term use at the recommended dose. However, if your symptoms do not improve after a few days of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, you should stop and consult your pharmacist or GP.

Can I use sodium cromoglicate eye drops during pregnancy?

Sodium cromoglicate is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream when applied topically to the eye, which means systemic exposure is minimal. However, as with all medicines during pregnancy, you should speak to your GP or pharmacist before using these drops. They will be able to weigh up the benefits and any potential risks for your individual situation.

How should I store sodium cromoglicate eye drops after opening?

Store the bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and heat, and keep it out of reach of children. Once opened, the drops must be discarded after 28 days — even if solution remains in the bottle — to reduce the risk of contamination and eye infection. Writing the opening date on the label is a helpful reminder.

What is the latest research on sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

Sodium cromoglicate has been used clinically for several decades and its safety and efficacy profile is well established in published literature. It remains a recommended treatment for allergic conjunctivitis in NHS guidance and the British National Formulary. While newer dual-action agents (combining antihistamine and mast cell stabilising effects) have emerged, sodium cromoglicate continues to be widely used due to its excellent tolerability and low cost.

How Should You Use Sodium Cromoglicate 2% Eye Drops?

Using your eye drops correctly is just as important as using them consistently. Before you begin, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Make sure the bottle is not damaged and that the solution looks clear — do not use it if it appears cloudy or discoloured.

Follow these steps each time you apply the drops:

What Is the Correct Dose of Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

The recommended dose for adults and children aged 6 and over is one to two drops into each affected eye, four times daily. Spacing your doses evenly throughout the day — for example, morning, midday, late afternoon, and evening — helps maintain a consistent level of protection against allergen-triggered symptoms.

The table below summarises dosing by age group and indication:

When Is the Best Time to Use Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

Because sodium cromoglicate works preventatively rather than reactively, timing matters. If you have seasonal hay fever, start using the drops a few days before the pollen season begins — or before you know you'll be exposed to your trigger allergen. This gives the medicine time to stabilise mast cells before they encounter the allergen.

During the day, try to space your four doses as evenly as possible. If you use other eye preparations, leave at least five minutes between each product, and always apply eye ointments last if you use them.

How Long Can You Use Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops For?

You can use these drops throughout the allergy season or for as long as your symptoms persist. There is no evidence of harm from continued use at the recommended dose over a full allergy season. However, if your symptoms have not improved after a few days of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the drops and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Remember to discard the bottle 28 days after opening, regardless of how much solution remains. Using drops beyond this point risks contamination and potential eye infection.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

Most people tolerate sodium cromoglicate eye drops very well. The side effects that do occur are generally mild, localised to the eye, and short-lived. The most frequently reported experience is a brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after instilling the drops — this usually settles within a minute or two and is not a sign that anything is wrong.

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation on instillation
  • Temporary blurred vision lasting a few minutes after application
  • Mild watering of the eye immediately after use

If you experience temporary blurred vision after applying the drops, avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision has fully cleared.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

A smaller number of people may notice other mild effects. These are less common but worth being aware of, particularly if they persist or worsen over time.

  • Redness of the eye or surrounding eyelid skin
  • Itching or a gritty sensation in the eye
  • Mild swelling of the eyelid
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) — rare

If any of these effects are persistent or particularly bothersome, stop using the drops and speak to your pharmacist. They can advise whether an alternative treatment might be more suitable for you.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

Serious side effects with topically applied sodium cromoglicate are very rare. However, as with any medicine, a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis or angioedema) is possible, though extremely uncommon. Signs of a serious allergic reaction include sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a widespread skin rash, or dizziness and collapse.

If you experience any of these symptoms after using the drops, stop immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest accident and emergency department. Do not drive yourself.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as stinging or temporary blurred vision, no specific action is needed — these typically resolve on their own within minutes. If you find the stinging particularly uncomfortable, try storing the bottle at room temperature rather than in the fridge, as cold drops can sometimes feel more irritating.

If side effects are persistent, worsening, or affecting your quality of life, speak to your pharmacist or GP. They may suggest a different formulation or an alternative treatment. You should also seek advice if your eye symptoms are not improving after several days of regular use, as this may indicate a different underlying condition requiring assessment.

Can Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been reported for sodium cromoglicate when applied topically to the eye. Because systemic absorption is minimal, interactions with oral medicines are not expected. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye ointments at the same time, allow at least five minutes between each preparation to prevent one product washing out the other. Always apply eye ointments last in your routine.

If you are unsure whether sodium cromoglicate is compatible with any other medicines you are taking, ask your pharmacist before starting treatment.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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