Mast cell stabilizers are available in several different forms, and each is designed for a specific purpose. These include:

• Ophthalmic (related to the eye) treatments (e.g., eye drops). Used to treat the itching in the eyes commonly associated with some allergies, as well as redness, tearing and burning. This type of mast cell stabilizer is available only by prescription. Some contain antihistamines, as well as mast cell stabilizers to treat and prevent eye allergies.
  
  
• Nasal treatments (e.g., nasal spray). Used to treat sneezing, wheezing, runny nose and other symptoms associated with seasonal or chronic hay fever (allergic rhinitis). This type of mast cell stabilizer is available over-the-counter.
  
  
• Inhaled treatments (e.g., inhaler). Used to prevent the symptoms of asthma. Available only by prescription.
  
  
• Oral treatments (e.g., capsule, liquid). Usually designed to treat the symptoms of mastocytosis (rare condition caused by an overabundance of mast cells in the body). Available only by prescription.

Types of mast cell stabilizers include: