This medication is used to improve breathing and reduce
the risk of lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis. It is used
along with other treatments for this disease (such as chest physical
therapy, medications, nutritional supplements). Dornase alfa is the same as
a substance (DNase I enzyme) that is naturally produced by the body. It
works in the airways by decreasing stickiness/thickness of mucus so that it
can be cleared from the lungs more easily.
Read the Instructions for Use if available from your
pharmacist before you start using dornase alfa and each time you get a
refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
This medication is inhaled into the lungs using special
breathing equipment as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice
daily. A health care professional will show you the proper way to prepare
the medication and use the equipment. If you are unclear about any of the
instructions, ask your health care professional.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and
response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this medication
more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve faster and the
risk for side effects may be increased.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each
day.
Sore/dry throat and hoarseness may occur. Eye
redness/irritation may also rarely occur. If any of these effects last or
get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- unusual trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using dornase alfa, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this
medication.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store in the refrigerator away from light and heat. Do
not freeze. Keep all medications away from children and
pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.