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Dornase alpha

Supportive Care

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What is dornase alpha?

Dornase alfa, also called Pulmozyme®, is a medicine for cystic fibrosis. It can lower the number of lung infections you have. It can also help your lungs work better. Your doctor might also give you dornase alfa for another condition. Your doctor can explain why you need this medicine.

You will use this medicine with a machine called a nebulizer. The machine turns the medicine into a fine mist. You breathe in the mist through your mouth, and it goes into your lungs.

Dornase alfa is available in a 2.5mL solution to be inhaled.

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Possible side effects

Most common

  • Change in voice
  • Runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • Eye irritation
  • Skin rash
  • Heartburn
  • Cough

If you have any of these side effects, tell the doctor right away.
 

  • Allergic reaction
    • Itchy skin
    • Hives (swelling and red patches on your skin)
    • Swelling in your face or hands
    • Swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat
    • A “tight” feeling in your chest
    • Trouble breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Fever
  • Shortness of breath

These are the most common side effects, but you might have others. Please tell your doctor or nurse about all side effects.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take dornase alpha will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Your nurse, doctor, or respiratory therapist will show you how to use dornase alfa in your nebulizer machine. You will also learn how to clean the machine before and after using it.

Drug at Home:

  • Do not put any other medicine in the nebulizer with dornase alfa. Wash your hands with soap and water before you get the dose ready to use.
  • Only use each container once. You might not use all the medicine in a container. But do not use that container again, even if medicine is left after you give a dose. Only use the amount your child’s doctor prescribed. Then, throw the container and any leftover medicine in the trash.
  • Do not use the medicine if it looks cloudy, is a different color than normal, or has anything floating in it. Also, do not use it if the container is leaking.
  • Keep the medicine in its foil pouch in the refrigerator. Keep it away from direct light.
  • Do not leave the medicine at room temperature longer than 24 hours.
  • This medicine is made with hamster cells. Please tell your doctor if you are allergic to hamsters.
  • Talk with your doctor before you take any new medicine. This includes:
    • Medicine another doctor prescribes for you,
    • Medicine you buy without a prescription,
    • Natural products, such as herbs, and
    • Vitamins
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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