Dornase Alfa inhaler (Pulmozyme, dornase alfa) is an innovative treatment for patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). It improves lung function and reduces the risk of infection by breaking down sticky DNA fragments in the respiratory tract and improving mucus clearance efficiency. Its clinical efficacy has been verified in many studies.
Efficacy of Dornase Alfa inhaler
Significantly improves lung function indicators
A 2.5 mg dose once a day can increase patients' forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1). Clinical trials have shown that after 6 months of continuous use, about 60% of patients have an improvement of ≥5% in FEV1 compared with baseline, and respiratory symptoms such as cough and wheezing are significantly reduced.
Reduce the risk of respiratory infections
For patients with FVC ≥ 40% of the predicted value, Dornase Alfa inhaler can reduce the incidence of acute respiratory infections requiring intravenous antibiotic treatment by 28%. Long-term use (≥12 months) reduces the number of hospitalizations and significantly improves the quality of life of patients
Understanding the core efficacy of the drug helps patients adhere to standardized treatment. The following content will explain the potential side effects that need to be paid attention to during use.
Side effects of Dornase Alfa(Pulmozyme)
Dornase Alfa(Pulmozyme) is generally well tolerated, but some patients may experience mild to moderate adverse reactions. Timely identification and management of side effects can ensure the continuity of treatment.
Common local reactions
About 15% of patients report hoarseness, pharyngitis or laryngitis, which usually occur within 1 hour after nebulization inhalation and last for several hours to resolve on their own. It is recommended to rinse the mouth with water after inhalation to avoid drug residues irritating the throat mucosa.
Respiratory system-related symptoms
3%-5% of patients experience chest pain or transient dyspnea, which may be related to the process of mucus loosening and discharge. If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours or are accompanied by a decrease in blood oxygen saturation, the medication should be suspended and medical evaluation should be sought.
Reasonable response to side effects can reduce the risk of treatment interruption. The following content will guide patients to use and store drugs correctly.
Precautions for Dornase Alfaa inhalation
Standardized use and storage are the key to ensuring the efficacy and safety of the drug. The following matters require the attention of patients and their families.
Nebulizer equipment selection and operation
Only certified jet nebulizers or vibrating mesh nebulizers, such as the eRapid system (for adults and children who can cooperate with oral inhalation) are recommended. Avoid mixing with other drugs. Check the clarity of the solution before each inhalation. If turbidity or discoloration is found, discard it immediately.
Strict temperature control and expiration date management
Unopened drugs must be refrigerated at 2°C-8°C, and the cold chain must be maintained during transportation. Unused single-dose ampoules after opening should be returned to the original aluminum foil bag for refrigeration. They must be discarded if exposed to room temperature for more than 60 hours. The drug is valid for 24 months and is prohibited from use after expiration.
Patients need to clean the nebulizer parts regularly and disinfect according to the instructions to avoid bacterial contamination. During treatment, it is recommended to review lung function every 3 months to monitor long-term efficacy. If cross-border drug purchases are required, the quality of the drugs should be ensured through formal channels. Standardized medication combined with daily breathing exercises can help CF patients better manage the disease and delay the decline of lung function.
