How to Find a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Cromolyn Near You [2026 Guide]

Updated:

February 14, 2026

Author:

Peter Daggett

Summarize this blog with AI:

Need a Cromolyn prescription? Learn which doctors prescribe Cromolyn Sodium, how to find one near you, and what to expect at your appointment in 2026.

Getting a Cromolyn Prescription Starts With Finding the Right Doctor

If you've been told you need Cromolyn Sodium — whether for mastocytosis, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), or another condition — you might be wondering where to start. Not every doctor is familiar with this medication, and finding a provider who understands when and how to prescribe it can feel like a challenge.

This guide walks you through the types of doctors who prescribe Cromolyn, how to find one near you, and what to expect at your first appointment.

What Type of Doctor Prescribes Cromolyn?

Cromolyn Sodium is a mast cell stabilizer used primarily for systemic mastocytosis and mast cell activation syndrome. Because these are specialized conditions, the doctor who prescribes it will depend on your diagnosis and symptoms.

Allergist or Immunologist

This is the most common type of specialist to prescribe Cromolyn. Allergists and immunologists are trained to diagnose and treat conditions involving the immune system, including mast cell disorders. If you have symptoms like flushing, itching, abdominal pain, or diarrhea that may be related to mast cell activation, an allergist is a strong starting point.

Gastroenterologist

If your main symptoms are gastrointestinal — diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, or vomiting — a gastroenterologist may be the one to prescribe Cromolyn oral solution. Some GI specialists use Cromolyn for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or eosinophilic esophagitis as well.

Hematologist or Oncologist

For patients with confirmed systemic mastocytosis, a hematologist or oncologist often manages treatment. These specialists are familiar with the full range of mast cell disorders and can prescribe Cromolyn as part of a broader treatment plan.

Primary Care or Internal Medicine

Your primary care doctor can prescribe Cromolyn if they're familiar with your condition. However, because mast cell disorders are relatively uncommon, many primary care providers may prefer to refer you to a specialist first. If you already have a diagnosis, your PCP may be comfortable writing the prescription.

Pulmonologist

If you were previously using the inhaled form of Cromolyn (Intal, now discontinued) for asthma, a pulmonologist may have been your prescriber. While the inhaled form is no longer available, pulmonologists may still be involved in your care if mast cell issues affect your lungs.

Dermatologist

In cases where mast cell symptoms primarily affect the skin — hives, flushing, or skin lesions — a dermatologist experienced with mast cell disorders may prescribe Cromolyn.

How to Find a Provider Near You

Once you know which type of specialist to look for, here are the best ways to find one in your area.

Use Your Insurance Provider Directory

Start with your insurance company's online directory. Search for allergists, immunologists, or gastroenterologists in your network. This ensures you'll have coverage for the visit itself. Call the office before booking to confirm they treat mast cell disorders or prescribe Cromolyn.

Try Zocdoc or Healthgrades

Online platforms like Zocdoc and Healthgrades let you search for specialists by condition and location. You can filter by insurance accepted, read patient reviews, and often book appointments online. Search for "mast cell" or "mastocytosis" to find doctors with relevant experience.

Ask for a Referral

If you have a primary care doctor, ask them for a referral to an allergist or immunologist. Many insurance plans require a referral to see a specialist anyway. Your PCP can help identify the right type of specialist based on your symptoms.

Consider Telehealth

Cromolyn is not a controlled substance, which means it can be prescribed via telehealth in most states. If there are no specialists near you — or if wait times are long — a telehealth appointment may be a good option. Some telehealth platforms specialize in complex conditions and can connect you with doctors experienced in mast cell disorders.

Look for Mast Cell Disorder Support Groups

Patient communities for mastocytosis and MCAS often maintain lists of doctors who are experienced with these conditions. Organizations like The Mastocytosis Society or online support groups on Facebook and Reddit can be valuable resources for finding knowledgeable providers.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Knowing what to prepare for can make your first visit go more smoothly.

Before Your Visit

  • Bring a list of your current medications, including supplements
  • Write down your symptoms, when they started, and any patterns you've noticed
  • Bring any previous lab results or medical records related to your condition
  • Note any medications you've tried and whether they helped

During the Visit

Your doctor will likely ask detailed questions about your symptoms and may order blood tests (such as serum tryptase levels) or other diagnostic tests. If they determine Cromolyn is appropriate for you, they'll write a prescription — typically for Cromolyn Sodium oral solution (100 mg/5 mL ampules), taken four times daily before meals and at bedtime.

Be sure to ask your doctor:

  • How long until Cromolyn starts working? (Typically 2–6 weeks for full effect)
  • What side effects should I watch for?
  • Will I need follow-up labs or appointments?
  • What if I can't find Cromolyn at my pharmacy?

If Your Doctor Isn't Familiar With Cromolyn

It's possible you'll encounter a doctor who hasn't prescribed Cromolyn before. This doesn't necessarily mean you need a different provider. You can share information about Cromolyn's FDA-approved uses and ask if they'd be willing to prescribe it based on your clinical picture. If they're not comfortable, ask for a referral to a specialist who is.

After You Get Your Prescription

Getting the prescription is only half the battle. Cromolyn Sodium oral solution has been experiencing an ongoing shortage since 2023, which means your local pharmacy may not have it in stock.

Here's what to do next:

  • Check availability before leaving the doctor's office. Use Medfinder to see which pharmacies near you have Cromolyn in stock right now.
  • Ask about alternatives. If Cromolyn isn't available, your doctor may suggest alternatives like Ketotifen or other mast cell stabilizers.
  • Look into compounding pharmacies. Some compounding pharmacies can prepare Cromolyn in oral capsule form (100 mg or 200 mg) when the commercial solution is unavailable.
  • Explore savings options. Without insurance, Cromolyn can cost $130–$400+ per month. Check out savings programs and coupons to reduce your costs.

Final Thoughts

Finding a doctor who can prescribe Cromolyn may take a little extra effort, but it's absolutely doable. Start with an allergist or immunologist if you're not sure where to go, use your insurance directory and online tools to find providers, and don't hesitate to ask about telehealth options if specialists are scarce in your area.

Once you have your prescription, Medfinder can help you find a pharmacy that has Cromolyn in stock — so you can focus on feeling better, not calling pharmacies.

Do I need a specialist to prescribe Cromolyn?

Not always. While allergists and immunologists are the most common prescribers, your primary care doctor can prescribe Cromolyn if they're familiar with your condition. However, many PCPs prefer to refer patients to a specialist for mast cell disorders.

Can Cromolyn be prescribed through telehealth?

Yes. Cromolyn is not a controlled substance, so it can be prescribed via telehealth in most states. This is a good option if there are no specialists near you or wait times are long.

What should I do if my doctor hasn't heard of Cromolyn?

You can share information about Cromolyn's FDA-approved uses for mastocytosis and ask if they'd be willing to prescribe it. If they're not comfortable, ask for a referral to an allergist, immunologist, or gastroenterologist who has experience with mast cell disorders.

How long does it take to get a Cromolyn prescription?

If your doctor determines Cromolyn is appropriate, you can receive a prescription at your first visit. However, getting an appointment with a specialist may take several weeks. Telehealth can sometimes speed up this process.

Why waste time calling, coordinating, and hunting?

You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.

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