Dornase alfa

Dornase alfa Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Dornase alfa is a brand name. Its generic name is Dornase alfa.

Introduction

Dornase alfa (Pulmozyme®) is a polymeric product consisting of two recombinant deoxyribonuclease (DNase I) polymers that is used in the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF). It is a genetically engineered version of human DNAse I and is manufactured by pharmaceutical company Genentech. It was approved for use in the United States in 1994.

Uses/Purpose

Dornase alfa is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF). It is used to reduce the thickness and viscosity of mucus, which helps to improve breathing and reduce the risk of respiratory-related infections and hospitalizations in people with CF.

Mechanism of Action

Dornase alfa works by breaking down DNA in the mucus that lines the airways of individuals with CF, which helps to make the mucus easier to cough out. This reduces the risk of blockage in the airways, making it easier for individuals with CF to breathe.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Dornase alfa typically begins working within 1-2 weeks after it’s first administered. However, individuals with CF may need to use the medication for several months before seeing the full effects.

Absorption

Dornase alfa is not absorbed through the digestive tract and therefore does not reach the bloodstream.

Route of Elimination

Dornase alfa is eliminated from the body through the lungs as it is broken down by the enzymes in the airway lining.

Dosage

Dornase alfa is typically given as an inhaled solution and is administered using a nebulizer or other type of machine that produces mist. The recommended dosing is 2.5mg twice daily for cystic fibrosis, although the dosage and frequency may be adjusted by a health care professional, depending on the individual's needs and response.

Administration

Dornase alfa should be administered using a nebulizer or other type of machine that produces mist. The medication should be administered at the same time(s) each day and should be given according to the instructions of a healthcare professional.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Dornase alfa may include coughing, wheezing, headache, chest pain, nasal irritation, and sore throat. More severe side effects are rare, but may include difficulty breathing, rash, hives, itching, facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness.

Toxicity

Dornase alfa is generally well tolerated and has no known toxic effects.

Precautions

Patients with certain medical conditions should use caution when taking Dornase alfa, including those with asthma, COPD, or allergies, and those with phenylketonuria (PKU). It is also important to tell your doctor about all medications, including vitamins and supplements, that you are taking before using Dornase alfa.

Interactions

There are currently no known significant drug or disease interactions associated with Dornase alfa.

Food Interactions

There are currently no known food interactions associated with Dornase alfa.

Pregnancy Use

Safety in pregnancy has not been established for Dornase alfa. Therefore, pregnant women should not use Dornase alfa without first consulting with their health care provider.

Lactation Use

It has not been established whether Dornase alfa is safe to use while breastfeeding. Therefore, a woman should not use Dornase alfa without first consulting with her health care provider.

Acute Overdose

There have been no reports of an acute overdose with Dornase alfa.

Contraindications

Dornase alfa should not be used by individuals who are hypersensitive (allergic) to any of its ingredients or to an inactive ingredient used in its formulation.

Use Directions

Dornase alfa should be administered by inhalation only as instructed by a health care professional.

Storage Conditions

Dornase alfa should be stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature and should not be exposed to temperatures above 30°C.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Dornase alfa is unknown.

Half Life

The half-life of Dornase alfa is approximately 1 hour.

Clearance

The clearance of Dornase alfa is unknown.

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