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Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops 10ml

Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops 10ml

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  • ✔️ Relieves itchy, red, watery eyes caused by allergic conjunctivitis
  • ✔️ Mast cell stabiliser — targets the allergic reaction at its source
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over
  • ✔️ Preventative action helps reduce symptoms throughout allergy season
  • ✔️ Compact 10ml bottle — easy to carry during hay fever season

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What Are Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops Used For?

 

If your eyes itch, water, and turn red every time pollen season arrives — or whenever you're around cats, dust, or other allergens — you'll know how disruptive allergic conjunctivitis can be. Sodium cromoglicate eye drops are a clinically established, over-the-counter treatment designed to relieve exactly those symptoms. Available in a convenient 10ml bottle, this 2% solution is suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over, and can be used throughout the allergy season without the need for a prescription. You can browse our full range of eye care products if you're looking for additional support alongside these drops.

Allergic conjunctivitis affects a significant proportion of the UK population, particularly during spring and summer when airborne pollen counts are at their highest. The condition causes the conjunctiva — the thin membrane covering the white of the eye — to become inflamed in response to allergens. Symptoms can range from mild irritation to persistent, debilitating itching that interferes with daily life.

 

How Do Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops Work?

 

The mechanism behind these drops is straightforward but clinically meaningful. Rather than simply masking symptoms after they appear, sodium cromoglicate works upstream — at the point where the allergic reaction begins.

  • Allergens (such as pollen or pet dander) enter the eye and bind to IgE antibodies on the surface of mast cells in the conjunctiva.
  • Normally, this triggers mast cells to degranulate — releasing histamine, prostaglandins, and other inflammatory mediators.
  • Sodium cromoglicate stabilises the mast cell membrane, preventing degranulation from occurring.
  • With fewer inflammatory chemicals released, the classic symptoms of itching, redness, and watering are significantly reduced or prevented altogether.

Because it works preventatively rather than reactively, it's most effective when you start using it before your symptoms begin — ideally a few days before your typical allergy season kicks off.

 

Who Should Use Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

 

These drops are suitable for a wide range of people dealing with eye symptoms triggered by allergens. They're particularly well suited to those who experience seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis and want a non-drowsy, topical option that doesn't affect the rest of the body. If you also suffer from nasal hay fever symptoms, it's worth exploring our allergy and hay fever range for complementary treatments.

  • Adults and children aged 6 years and over with allergic conjunctivitis
  • People with seasonal allergies (e.g. hay fever) who experience eye symptoms
  • Those with perennial allergic conjunctivitis triggered by dust mites, pet dander, or mould
  • Patients who prefer a preservative-containing topical option and do not wear soft contact lenses during use

 

How Do Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops Compare to Antihistamine Eye Drops?

 

Feature Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops 2% Antihistamine Eye Drops (e.g. Azelastine)
Mechanism Mast cell stabiliser — prevents histamine release Blocks histamine H1 receptors after release
Speed of action Gradual — requires several days of regular use Faster — works within minutes of instillation
Best used Preventatively, before or at start of allergy season For rapid relief of acute allergic symptoms
Suitable for children Yes, from age 6 Varies by product — check individual labelling

 

How Should You Store Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

 

Store the bottle below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Once opened, the drops should be discarded after 28 days — even if there is solution remaining — to reduce the risk of eye infection from microbial contamination. Do not use the drops if the solution appears cloudy or discoloured, or if the expiry date on the packaging has passed.

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 Eye Drops 10ml specifications
Treatment category Allergic conjunctivitis / Eye allergy relief
Mechanism of action Mast cell stabiliser
Effective for Itching, redness, and watering of the eyes due to allergy
Suitable for Adults and children aged 6 years and over
Active ingredient Sodium cromoglicate 2% w/v
Pack size 10ml
Strength 2% w/v
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Mast cell stabiliser (cromone)
Preparation Aqueous eye drop solution
Route of administration Ophthalmic (topical, into the eye)

Specifications of Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops 10ml

 

What Is Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drop Solution and What Is It Used For?

 

Sodium cromoglicate eye drops 2% belong to a group of medicines called mast cell stabilisers. They are used to prevent and relieve the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis — an inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by an allergic reaction to substances such as pollen, dust mites, animal fur, or mould spores. Symptoms typically include itching, redness, watering, and a gritty or burning sensation in the eyes. These drops work by stopping the allergic reaction at its source, rather than simply relieving symptoms after they've already developed.

 

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

 

Before using sodium cromoglicate eye drops, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not use these drops if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to sodium cromoglicate or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • You are wearing soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses — the preservative benzalkonium chloride can be absorbed by soft lenses and may cause eye irritation
  • The child requiring treatment is under 6 years of age — seek medical advice first
  • You have an active eye infection — treat the infection before starting these drops

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before using these drops if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Although topical absorption is minimal, it is always sensible to seek professional advice. There are no clinically significant drug interactions known for topical ophthalmic sodium cromoglicate, but always inform your pharmacist of any other eye preparations you are using.

  • If using other eye drops, leave at least 5 minutes between each preparation
  • Do not use alongside other eye drops without pharmacist guidance

 

How Should You Use Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops Correctly?

 

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

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the bottle.
  2. Tilt your head back slightly and look up towards the ceiling.
  3. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
  4. Hold the dropper tip close to your eye without touching it, and squeeze one to two drops into the pocket.
  5. Close your eye gently and press lightly on the inner corner (near the nose) for about one minute — this reduces systemic absorption.
  6. Repeat for the other eye if required.
  7. Replace the cap immediately after use.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Allergic conjunctivitis Adults and children aged 6+ 1–2 drops per affected eye 4 times daily
Allergic conjunctivitis (severe or acute flare) Adults (on medical advice) 1–2 drops per affected eye Up to 6 times daily
Children under 6 Under 6 years Not recommended without medical advice

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before instilling the drops and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting. You can find further guidance on managing eye allergies alongside other seasonal symptoms in our allergy and hay fever collection.

 

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 (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

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

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Redness of the eye (conjunctival hyperaemia)
  • Eyelid swelling or puffiness
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Allergic reaction to the drops themselves — stop use and seek advice if this occurs

If you experience severe eye pain, sudden changes in vision, or signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing), stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

 

How Should You Store Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of the drops. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place — do not refrigerate unless stated on the packaging
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Discard the bottle 28 days after first opening, even if solution remains
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label or carton

If you're managing multiple allergy treatments at once, our eye care collection includes a range of complementary products to support your eye health throughout allergy season.

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Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can order sodium cromoglicate eye drops 10ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, without needing a prescription. They are classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine, meaning they are available over the counter. Browse our eye care collection for this and other eye health products.

How do sodium cromoglicate eye drops work in the body?

Sodium cromoglicate stabilises mast cells in the conjunctiva, preventing them from releasing histamine and other inflammatory chemicals when they come into contact with allergens such as pollen or pet dander. This stops the allergic reaction before it causes symptoms like itching and redness. It is a preventative mechanism, which is why regular use is important for best results.

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

Wash your hands, 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 letting the dropper tip touch your eye, then close your eye gently and press lightly on the inner corner for about one minute. Repeat for the other eye if needed, and replace the cap immediately after use.

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

The standard recommended dose for adults is one to two drops instilled into each affected eye, four times daily. In more severe cases, a doctor may advise using the drops up to six times daily. Always follow the instructions on the packaging or as directed by your pharmacist or GP.

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). For children under 6, you should seek medical advice before use, as safety in this age group has not been fully established for OTC use. Always supervise children when applying eye drops.

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

Because sodium cromoglicate is a preventative treatment rather than an immediate-relief medicine, it typically takes several days of consistent use before you notice the full benefit. For seasonal allergies, it is best to start using the drops a few days before your allergy season begins. If your symptoms are already severe, your pharmacist may suggest a faster-acting antihistamine eye drop alongside it.

What are the side effects of sodium cromoglicate eye drops and how do I manage them?

The most common 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. To minimise stinging, make sure the drops are at room temperature before use. If you experience persistent redness, swelling, or any signs of an allergic reaction to the drops themselves, stop using them and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Can I use sodium cromoglicate eye drops with contact lenses?

No — you should always remove soft contact lenses before applying these drops, as the preservative benzalkonium chloride can be absorbed into soft lens material and may cause eye irritation or damage the lenses. Wait at least 30 minutes after instilling the drops before reinserting your lenses. Hard (rigid gas-permeable) lenses should also be removed prior to use — check with your optician if you are unsure.

Who is eligible to use sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

These drops are suitable for adults and children aged 6 and over who have been diagnosed with or are experiencing symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. They are not suitable for people with a known allergy to sodium cromoglicate or any of the other ingredients. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have an active eye infection, speak to your pharmacist or GP before starting treatment.

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

If you forget to use your drops at the scheduled time, apply them as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case simply skip the missed dose and continue as normal. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. Consistent, regular use is key to getting the most benefit from this preventative treatment.

How long can I use sodium cromoglicate eye drops for?

Sodium cromoglicate eye drops can be used throughout the allergy season, which for hay fever sufferers typically runs from late March to September in the UK. For perennial allergic conjunctivitis (year-round symptoms), longer-term use may be appropriate under pharmacist or GP guidance. If your symptoms have not improved after a few weeks of regular use, seek further medical advice.

What are the alternatives to sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

Alternatives include antihistamine eye drops such as azelastine or olopatadine, which act more quickly by blocking histamine receptors directly. Oral antihistamines can also help with eye symptoms as part of broader hay fever management — explore our allergy and hay fever range for options. Your pharmacist can help you decide which approach suits your symptom pattern best.

Can I use sodium cromoglicate eye drops if I am pregnant?

Topical ophthalmic sodium cromoglicate is minimally absorbed into the bloodstream, which means systemic exposure to the foetus is very low. However, as with all medicines during pregnancy, you should speak to your GP or midwife before using these drops to confirm they are appropriate for your individual circumstances. Do not self-treat without professional guidance during pregnancy.

Are there any drug interactions with sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been reported for topical ophthalmic sodium cromoglicate, given its minimal systemic absorption. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye preparations at the same time, leave at least 5 minutes between each product to avoid diluting the drops or reducing their effectiveness. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines you are currently using.

What is the latest research on sodium cromoglicate eye drops?

Sodium cromoglicate has been used clinically for several decades and remains a well-established first-line option for allergic conjunctivitis in UK clinical guidelines. Research continues to support its safety and tolerability profile, particularly for long-term seasonal use. While newer antihistamine eye drops may offer faster symptom relief, sodium cromoglicate remains a cost-effective and widely recommended preventative option for managing eye allergy symptoms.

How Should You Use Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

Using these drops correctly is important for both safety and effectiveness. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling the bottle, and avoid letting the dropper tip come into contact with your eye, fingers, or any other surface to prevent contamination. If you wear soft contact lenses, remove them before applying the drops and wait at least 30 minutes before reinserting.

Follow these steps each time you use the drops:

What Is the Correct Dose of Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops?

The dose depends on your age and the severity of your symptoms. Always follow the instructions provided with the product or as directed by your pharmacist or GP. Do not exceed the recommended dose without medical advice.

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

Because sodium cromoglicate works preventatively, timing matters. Ideally, you should begin using the drops a few days before you expect your allergy symptoms to start — for example, before the pollen season begins in late March. Space your four daily doses evenly throughout the day (for example, morning, midday, late afternoon, and evening) to maintain a consistent level of protection in the eye.

If you are using other eye preparations at the same time, leave at least 5 minutes between each product. Always apply sodium cromoglicate drops before any eye ointments, as ointments can reduce absorption of the drops.

How Long Can You Use Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops For?

For seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, you can use these drops throughout the allergy season — typically from late March to September in the UK. For year-round (perennial) allergic conjunctivitis, longer-term use may be appropriate, but it is advisable to review your treatment with a pharmacist or GP periodically. Once opened, the bottle must be discarded after 28 days regardless of how much solution remains.

If your symptoms do not improve after a few weeks of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the drops and seek medical advice promptly.

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 well, and side effects are generally mild and short-lived. The most frequently reported effects occur immediately after instillation and tend to resolve within a few minutes without any treatment.

  • Transient stinging or burning sensation in the eye immediately after applying the drops
  • Temporary blurred vision — do not drive or operate machinery until your vision has cleared
  • Mild watering of the eye shortly after use
  • A brief sensation of grittiness or discomfort

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

Less commonly, some people may experience more noticeable local reactions. These are still generally mild but should be monitored. If any of the following persist or worsen, speak to your pharmacist.

  • Redness of the white of the eye (conjunctival hyperaemia)
  • Swelling or puffiness of the eyelids
  • Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Itching or irritation that worsens rather than improves with use
  • Dry eye sensation

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

Serious side effects are rare with topical ophthalmic sodium cromoglicate, given that systemic absorption is minimal. However, a small number of people may experience a hypersensitivity (allergic) reaction to the drops themselves or to the preservative benzalkonium chloride. Signs of a serious reaction include:

  • Severe eye pain or sudden worsening of redness
  • Significant swelling of the eyelids or surrounding tissue
  • Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat — signs of anaphylaxis requiring emergency medical attention
  • Sudden or significant change in vision

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the drops immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as stinging or temporary blurred vision, no specific action is usually needed — simply wait a few minutes for the sensation to pass. Ensuring the drops are at room temperature before use can help reduce stinging. If you find the drops consistently cause significant discomfort, speak to your pharmacist, who may be able to suggest an alternative formulation or product.

You can report any suspected side effects from medicines directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Can Sodium Cromoglicate Eye Drops Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant interactions have been identified for topical ophthalmic sodium cromoglicate, as systemic absorption following eye drop instillation is very low. However, if you are using other eye drops or eye preparations at the same time, always leave at least 5 minutes between each product to prevent dilution and ensure each medicine is properly absorbed. Apply eye drops before any eye ointments. Always inform your pharmacist of all medicines — including over-the-counter products — that you are currently using.

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

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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