What is dornase alfa?
Dornase alfa is a synthetic protein that breaks down excess DNA in the pulmonary secretions of people with cystic fibrosis.
Dornase alfa is used to improve lung function in people with cystic fibrosis by thinning pulmonary secretions and reducing the risk of respiratory tract infections.
Dornase alfa may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about dornase alfa?
Do not dilute or mix the dornase alfa solution with any other drugs in the nebulizer. Mixing of dornase alfa with other drugs could lead to changes in the actions of the medications.
Ampules of dornase alfa do not contain a preservative. Once opened, the entire contents of the ampule must be used or discarded.
Dornase alfa must be stored in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 and 8 degrees Celsius) and protected from strong light. Keep unused ampules in the protective foil pouch. Dornase alfa should be kept refrigerated during transport. Combined lengths of exposure of the medication to room temperature should not exceed 24 hours.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using dornase alfa?
Do not use dornase alfa if you have had an allergic reaction to it or to other Chinese Hamster Ovary cell products.
Before using dornase alfa, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions or if you take other prescription or over-the-counter medicines. You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment.
Dornase alfa is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether dornase alfa passes into breast milk. Do not use dornase alfa without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.