Examples
| Brand Name | Chemical Name |
|---|---|
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.
| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: June 26, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Susanna McColley, MD - Pediatric Pulmonology | |
 © 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions. | ||