DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Dornase Alfa

March 21, 2017

Dornase Alpha Nebulizer solution

What is this medicine?

DORNASE ALFA (DOOR nace AL fa) breaks up lung congestion in patients with cystic fibrosis. It is used to improve how well the lungs work. This medicine also decreases the risk of getting a lung infection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to dornase alfa, animal proteins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for inhalation using a nebulizer. Nebulizers make a liquid into an aerosol that you breathe in through your mouth or your mouth and nose into your lungs. You will be taught how to use your nebulizer. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not dilute or mix with other drugs in the nebulizer. Do not use more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 5 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not mix with any other medicines in the nebulizer.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or healthcare professional as directed. Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • change in blood sugar, ask your health care provider for symptoms

  • chest pain

  • dizziness

  • eye irritation or infection

  • fever, flu-like symptoms

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

  • unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • change in voice

  • cough

  • runny nose

  • sore throat

  • stomach upset, nausea

  • weight loss

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store in a refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Protect from light. Store in foil pouch until ready to use. Do not store at room temperature for more than 24 hours. Do not use if solution is discolored or cloudy. Once opened, the entire ampule must be used or thrown away. Throw away any unopened medicine after the expiration date stamped on the ampule.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert