Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: DEOXYRIBONUCLEASE (DORNASE ALPHA) - INHALATION (dee-OX-ee-rye-bow-NEW-klee-aze, DOOR-naze Al-fa)
BRAND NAME(S): Pulmozyme
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication works in the lungs to break up thick, sticky mucous that clogs airways. It helps improve breathing and reduces the risk of lung infections in persons with cystic fibrosis. This is used with other medications and physical therapy in the management of cystic fibrosis.
HOW TO USE: This medication is inhaled into the lungs using special breathing machine called a nebulizer usually once or twice a day as prescribed. A health care professional will demonstrate the proper way to prepare the medication and use the machine. Do not increase your dose or take this more frequently than directed. Your condition will not improve faster but the chance for side effects will be increased. Do not stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Laryngitis, hoarseness or dry throat may occur. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: unusual coughing or wheezing, a rash, chest pain, irritation or redness of the eyes, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Cystic Fibrosis - Read about cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease of the mucus and sweat glands. Symptoms include bulky, foul smelling stools, abdominal pain, gas, malnutrition, and respiratory failure.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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