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Pulmozyme Side Effects

Generic name: dornase alfa

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 21, 2023.

Note: This document contains side effect information about dornase alfa. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Pulmozyme.

Summary

Common side effects of Pulmozyme include: transient skin rash and voice disorder. Other side effects include: laryngitis. Continue reading for a comprehensive list of adverse effects.

Applies to dornase alfa: inhalation solution.

Serious side effects of Pulmozyme

Along with its needed effects, dornase alfa (the active ingredient contained in Pulmozyme) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking dornase alfa:

More common

  • Body aches or pain
  • chest pain
  • congestion
  • cough
  • dryness or soreness of the throat
  • fever
  • hoarseness
  • runny nose
  • tender, swollen glands in the neck
  • trouble breathing
  • trouble swallowing
  • voice changes

Other side effects of Pulmozyme

Some side effects of dornase alfa may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

  • Rash
  • sneezing
  • stuffy nose

Less common

  • Acid or sour stomach
  • belching
  • burning, dry, or itching eyes
  • discharge or excessive tearing
  • heartburn
  • indigestion
  • redness, pain, or swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid
  • stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to dornase alfa: inhalation solution.

Dermatologic

Very common (10% or more): Rash (up to 12%)

Rare (less than 0.1%): Urticaria[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

Very common (10% or more): Chest pain (up to 25%)[Ref]

Other

Very common (10% or more): Fever (up to 32%), voice alteration (up to 18%)[Ref]

Respiratory

Very common (10% or more): Pharyngitis (up to 40%), rhinitis (up to 30%), dyspnea (up to 17%)

Common (1% to 10%): Laryngitis, Force Vita Capacity (FVC) decreased of 10% of predicted

Rare (less than 0.1%): Chest pain (pleuritic/non-cardiac), dysphonia, pulmonary function tests decreased[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Common (1% to 10%): Dyspepsia[Ref]

Immunologic

Common (1% to 10%): Development of serum antibodies (2% to 4%)[Ref]

Ocular

Common (1% to 10%): Conjunctivitis[Ref]

References

1. Bryson HM, Sorkin EM "Dornase alfa. A review of its pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential in cystic fibrosis." Drugs 48 (1994): 894-906

2. Witt DM, Anderson L "Dornase alfa: a new option in the management of cystic fibrosis." Pharmacotherapy 16 (1996): 40-8

3. "Product Information. Pulmozyme (dornase alfa)." Genentech (2001):

4. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics." O 0

5. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information." O 0

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer