Dornase alfa (Pulmozyme).

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Dornase alfa (Pulmozyme) is one of the most commonly used medications to treat the lung disease of cystic fibrosis (CF). As other respiratory medications have entered the clinical market, understanding the proper use and indication for dornase alfa is increasingly important. In addition, dornase alfa is being used to treat other medical conditions. This review covers recent publications and expanding indications.

RECENT FINDINGS

Understanding dornase alfa's mechanism of action and impact on the pathophysiology of CF leads to an improved understanding of optimal therapy, ways to improve adherence and use with other medications. Most importantly, routine use of dornase alfa is associated with improved lung function and survival in patients with CF. Outside of CF, potential uses include treating patients with empyema or on mechanical ventilation.

SUMMARY

Dornase alfa has been available for clinical use for nearly 20 years and is one of the most commonly used medications in patients with CF. Routine use is associated with a reduced rate of pulmonary deterioration and improved survival. Recent clinical reports suggest that dornase alfa may have clinical value with other medical problems such as complicated pneumonia and mechanically ventilated patients with atelectasis.