Side Effects of Dornase Alfa

Common side effects of dornase alfa include sore throat, runny nose, fever, and hoarseness. These are typically minor and easily treated -- most people have no problems when taking the drug. However, serious dornase alfa side effects are possible. If your breathing problems become worse or you are experiencing signs of an allergic reaction (such as swelling or a rash), contact your healthcare provider right away.

 

Side Effects of Dornase Alfa: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with dornase alfa (Pulmozyme®); however, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with dornase alfa. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of dornase alfa side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Dornase Alfa

Dornase alfa has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, in which a group of people taking the drug have side effects documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common side effects of dornase alfa included:
 
  • Sore throat -- in up to 40 percent of people
  • Fever -- up to 32 percent
  • Runny or stuffy nose -- up to 30 percent
  • Chest pain -- up to 25 percent
  • Voice changes -- up to 18 percent
  • Conjunctivitis ("pink eye") -- up to 5 percent
  • Voice hoarseness or loss of voice -- up to 4 percent
  • Indigestion or heartburn -- up to 3 percent.
     
(Side Effects of Dornase Alfa Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;