Pulmozyme (Dornase alfa)

The generic name for this medication is dornase alfa and is marketed under the name Pulmozyme®.

How does this medication work? What are its effects?

Dornase alfa is a drug that is used in combination with other medications to treat cystic fibrosis. It is used to reduce the risk of respiratory tract infections (e.g. bronchitis, pneumonia) and to improve lung function. This product works by breaking down the DNA (genetic material) of the mucus in the airways so that it is thinner and therefore easier to expel from the lungs.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for a condition that is not listed in this medication information article. Additionally, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions mentioned in this article. If you have not yet discussed this with your doctor, or if you are not sure why you are taking this medication, consult your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor first.

Do not give this medication to anyone, even someone who has the same symptoms as yours. This medication may harm people for whom it has not been prescribed.

How should this medication be used?

The usual dose is the contents of one 2.5 mg ampoule once daily by inhalation using the recommended nebulizer. Some people take this medication 2 times a day if recommended by the doctor.

Several factors can be taken into account in determining the dose a person needs: weight, health, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose other than those listed here, do not change how you take the medication without consulting your doctor first.

It is important to use this medication exactly as directed by your doctor and to understand how to use and maintain the nebulizer. Read the patient instructions provided to you; if you have questions about how to use this medication properly, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Use the nebulizer with the mouthpiece recommended or supplied with the nebulizer. Do not mix this medication with any other medication in the nebulizer. Before using a blister, check that it is not leaking by gently squeezing it between your fingers. This medication does not contain preservatives; once opened, the entire contents should be used or the unused portion should be discarded.

If you miss a dose, take the medication as soon as you notice the missed dose and resume treatment as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, don't worry about the missed dose and go back to the usual dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for missing a dose. If you are unsure what to do after missing a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store this medication in the refrigerator, away from light, and out of the reach of children.

This medication should be refrigerated while traveling and should not remain at room temperature for more than 24 hours. If the solution is cloudy or has changed color, do not use it and discard it.

Do not dispose of medication in wastewater (e.g. not in the sink or in the toilet bowl) or with household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of unused or expired medications.

What forms does this medication come in?

One ampoule contains 2.5 mg (1 mg/mL) dornase alfa in the form of a sterile, clear and colourless aqueous solution. Non-medicinal ingredients: calcium chloride dihydrate, sodium chloride, and sterile water for injection. This medication does not contain preservatives.

In what cases is this medication not recommended?

Do not use dornase alfa in the following circumstances:

• an allergy to dornase alfa or to any of the ingredients of the medicine
• an allergy to the products of Chinese hamster ovary cells.

What are the possible side effects of this medication?

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an adverse response to a medication when taken at normal doses. It can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

At least 1% of people taking this medication reported the following side effects. Many of these side effects can be managed and a few may go away on their own over time.

Consult your doctor if you experience these side effects and if they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to give you advice on what to do if these side effects occur:

• voice changes;
• heartburn;
• trouble breathing;
• chest pain
• a runny nose;
• a skin rash;
• a fever
• laryngitis;
• a sore throat;
• a cough;
• red eyes or swollen eyelids

Most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, but they could cause serious problems if you don't see your doctor or get medical attention.

Stop using the medication and seek immediate medical attention if there is a response such as:

• signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., hives, difficulty breathing, facial swelling, swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat)

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Consult your doctor if you notice a symptom that concerns you while taking this medication.

Are there any other precautions for use or warnings?

Before using medication, be sure to tell your doctor about any medical conditions or allergies you may have, what medications you are using, and any other important facts about your health. Women should mention if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while using this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Breastfeeding: It is not known whether dornase alfa passes into breast milk. If you are taking this medication while breast-feeding, it may affect your baby. Consult your doctor to find out if you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: neither the safety nor the effectiveness of this medication has been established for children under 5 years of age.

Can other agents interact with this medication?

Tell your doctor everything you are taking, whether it's prescription or over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies. Be sure to mention any supplements you are taking. If you use caffeine, alcohol, nicotine (by smoking cigarettes), or illegal drugs, you should tell your prescribing physician as these substances can change the action of many medications. In your case, your doctor may ask you to:

• stop taking any of the medications;
• replace one of the drugs with another;
• change how you take one or both medications
• change nothing at all.

The interference of one medication with another does not always lead to the interruption of taking one of them. Ask your doctor what to do in case of drug interactions.

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