I've been taking it for a number of years now to help with my joint pain long before I finally got the MCAS diagnosis.  Dr. Afrin didn't see the need for it, so just five weeks ago I stopped taking it.  The pain and stiffness in my hands has returned, though not horribly so far (it takes six weeks to entirely clear the body).  I'm going to discuss with my GP tomorrow whether I should try to tough it out while I experiment with other mast cell drugs (in order to be able to tell if they help with my joint pain), or if I should go back on it.

The one thing you should know...it's a pretty benign drug and generally has no side effects (and I react badly to just about everything!), however, in very rare cases it can cause irreparable damage to your retinas over time.  I have had to go to the ophthalmologist once a year for an exam and retinal scan just to make sure no damage is occurring.

I was going to ask same question myself as Dr Akin has just recommended it- said some of his patients are getting good results from it. I am worried about the potential retinal problems though.

I have to say, I did end out starting this last month but only 1 daily which didnt seem to make much difference. Started twice a day dose beginning of this week and am seeing a difference. So far no side effects except mild nausea first day or so.