DNase (recombinant human deoxyribonuclease or dornase alfa) for cystic fibrosis

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How It Works

The body's immune system uses white blood cells to fight infection. These cells release chemicals that kill both bacteria and surrounding normal cells. After attacking the bacteria, the white blood cells die, adding to the thickness of the mucus and damaging the lungs of people who have cystic fibrosis. DNase helps liquefy and thin mucus by clearing out dead white blood cells from the body.

DNase is given through a nebulizer and is inhaled into the lungs.

Why It Is Used

DNase is used to thin and liquefy mucus in the lungs of children and adults with cystic fibrosis who have lung problems.

How Well It Works

DNase thins mucus so it can be coughed up more easily, improves breathing, and reduces the chance of infection.

DNase works better on people who have mild to moderate cystic fibrosis.

Side Effects

DNase can irritate the throat. The long-term effects of this drug are not yet known.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

• DNase must be kept refrigerated at a specific temperature.
• DNase is expensive.
• DNase must be used regularly for it to work well.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

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