What additional usage instruction might be given for cromolyn to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm?

Cromolyn is a medication that is commonly used as a mast cell stabilizer to help prevent bronchospasm in patients with asthma and other respiratory conditions. For the specific purpose of preventing exercise-induced bronchospasm, it is recommended to use cromolyn in a timely manner prior to engaging in physical activity.

The most effective instruction for patients using cromolyn to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm is to administer the medication 15 to 30 minutes before exercise. However, using it 1 hour before exercise provides ample time for the medication to exert its effects, allowing the bronchodilatory and protective effects against allergen-induced or exercise-induced bronchospasm to take place.

Using cromolyn too close to exercise may not allow enough time for it to work optimally, while waiting too long might reduce its effectiveness. Therefore, advising patients to use it 1 hour prior ensures that the medication has time to act efficiently, thereby offering the best protection during exercise.