Pulmozyme is a synthetic protein that breaks down excess DNA in the pulmonary secretions of people with cystic fibrosis.
Pulmozyme is used to improve lung function in people with cystic fibrosis by thinning pulmonary secretions and reducing the risk of respiratory tract infections.
Pulmozyme may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Important information
Do not dilute or mix the Pulmozyme solution with any other drugs in the nebulizer. Mixing of Pulmozyme with other drugs could lead to changes in the actions of the medications.
Ampules of Pulmozyme do not contain a preservative. Once opened, the entire contents of the ampule must be used or discarded.
Pulmozyme 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. Pulmozyme 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 Pulmozyme?
Do not use Pulmozyme if you have had an allergic reaction to it or to other Chinese Hamster Ovary cell products.
Before using Pulmozyme, 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.
Pulmozyme 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 Pulmozyme passes into breast milk. Do not use Pulmozyme without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I use Pulmozyme?
Use Pulmozyme exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Pulmozyme is administered by inhalation using a recommended nebulizer. Your doctor or other healthcare provider will give you detailed instructions on the use and maintenance of the nebulizer.
Do not dilute or mix the Pulmozyme solution with any other drugs in the nebulizer. Mixing of Pulmozyme with other drugs could lead to changes in the actions of the medications.
If you are also taking other respiratory medications, use them in the order directed by your doctor (e.g., a bronchodilator, followed by chest physiotherapy, then Pulmozyme, etc.) Do not dilute or mix Pulmozyme with other agents in the nebulizer at the same time.
Ampules of Pulmozyme do not contain a preservative. It is intended for one-time use only. Once opened, the entire contents of the ampule must be used or discarded.
Do not use any Pulmozyme solution that is cloudy or discolored. Throw away any unused Pulmozyme on the expiration date stamped on the ampule.
Pulmozyme should be used on a regular basis to get the most benefit.
Pulmozyme 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. Pulmozyme should be kept refrigerated during transport. Combined lengths of exposure of the medication to room temperature should not exceed 24 hours.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and use only the next regularly scheduled dose as directed. Do not use a double dose.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of Pulmozyme is unlikely to threaten life. If an overdose is suspected, contact your doctor, a hospital emergency room, or a poison control center.
Symptoms of a Pulmozyme overdose are not known.
What should I avoid?
Do not dilute or mix the Pulmozyme solution with any other drugs in the nebulizer. Mixing of Pulmozyme with other drugs could lead to changes in the actions of the medications.
What are the possible side effects of Pulmozyme?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects while taking Pulmozyme, seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
-
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
-
increased difficulty breathing;
-
chest pain; or
-
fever.
Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur with the use of Pulmozyme. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects:
-
voice alteration;
-
sore throat;
-
rash;
-
laryngitis;
-
eye redness, irritation, or inflammation; or
-
nasal stuffiness or discharge.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Pulmozyme?
There are no known interactions between Pulmozyme and other medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products, during treatment with Pulmozyme.
