Pulmozyme (Dornase Alfa inhalation) is an innovative treatment for patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). It breaks down sticky DNA fragments in the respiratory tract and reduces mucus viscosity, thereby improving lung function and reducing the risk of infection. The drug needs to be used in combination with standard treatment regimens to provide targeted support for children and adult patients.
How effective is Dornase Alfa inhalation?
Core indications for improving lung function
Pulmozyme is suitable for long-term treatment of patients with cystic fibrosis aged 5 years and above, and can significantly improve forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1). Clinical trials have shown that after 2.5mg nebulized inhalation once a day for 6 months, the average improvement in lung function in patients is 5%-10%. The treatment effect is particularly significant for patients with FVC ≥ 40% of the predicted value.
Reduce the risk of respiratory infections
In patients with cystic fibrosis with FVC ≥ 40%, daily use of Pulmozyme can reduce the incidence of acute respiratory infections requiring intravenous antibiotics by 28%. Long-term use can also reduce the frequency of hospitalization, slow the progression of lung function deterioration, and improve the overall quality of life of patients.
Clarifying the scope of indications helps to accurately formulate treatment plans. The following content will explain the restrictions on the use of this drug.
Contraindications of Dornase Alfa inhaler
Currently, the contraindications of Pulmozyme have not been clearly defined in clinical studies, but the risk of medication should be carefully assessed based on the individual patient's situation. The following are two potential limiting factors that require special attention.
Risk of allergic reactions
It is contraindicated for those who are allergic to the active ingredient dornase alfa or excipients (such as sodium chloride and calcium chloride). If laryngeal edema, urticaria or dyspnea occurs after nebulization inhalation, the drug should be discontinued immediately and anti-allergic treatment should be received. It is recommended that the first use of the drug be carried out under the supervision of a medical institution.
Restrictions on special populations
The safety of medication for children under 5 years old has not been fully verified and must be strictly followed by a doctor's evaluation. Although there are no clear contraindications for pregnant and lactating women, there is a lack of long-term safety data. It is recommended to weigh the benefits of treatment and potential risks before making a decision.
Reasonable avoidance of contraindications can minimize the risk of treatment. The following content will detail the correct storage method of the drug.
Storage conditions of Dornase Alfa(Pulmozyme)
Pulmozyme is highly sensitive to storage conditions. Improper storage may cause the drug to become ineffective or deteriorate.
Temperature and light control
Unopened Pulmozyme must be refrigerated at 2°C-8°C. It is prohibited to freeze or expose it to an environment above 30°C. The original aluminum foil bag can effectively avoid light. After opening, unused single bottles must be returned to the aluminum foil bag for refrigeration and must be used within 60 hours. If the drug is exposed to room temperature for more than 60 hours, it must be discarded.
Transportation and packaging integrity
Refrigeration equipment must be used throughout the transportation process to ensure stable temperature. Each 2.5mg/2.5mL bottle, which is expensive, and the sealing of the aluminum foil bag needs to be checked regularly. If the drug solution is found to be turbid, discolored, or the ampoule is damaged, it should be stopped immediately.
Correct storage and use methods are directly related to the treatment effect. Patients need to inhale nebulization at a fixed time every day, using a special jet nebulizer or a vibrating mesh nebulizer to avoid mixing with other drugs. If symptoms such as hoarseness and chest pain occur during treatment, contact the doctor in time to adjust the plan. Through standardized management and regular follow-up visits, cystic fibrosis patients can more effectively control the progression of the disease and maintain good respiratory function.
