How to take Pulmozyme
Before taking or administering Pulmozyme, it is important to receive training from your CF healthcare team. You will need the following items for Pulmozyme administration:
- One ampule of Pulmozyme
- One nebulizer approved for use with Pulmozyme
- Tubing and other components that come with the nebulizer
- A mouthpiece (or a face mask for children younger than five years) and a compressor compatible with your nebulizer
It is important to take Pulmozyme every day as indicated by your doctor. This will ensure the highest level of efficacy in your fight against CF. Watch the following video for some helpful tips for taking Pulmozyme.
|Please see Important Safety Information|
Follow these steps to administer Pulmozyme.
- Begin by cleaning a flat table surface.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing the medication. This will avoid the risk of germs being introduced into the system.
- Place the nebulizer system onto the clean surface. The system should be clean and ready for use.
- Test the compressor by turning it on, and feeling the air output by putting your finger in front of the air output port. Turn the compressor off.
- Remove one ampule of Pulmozyme from its package. Look at the expiration date. Look at the contents of the solution to ensure clarity.
- If the solution is cloudy or discolored, do not use it. Turn the ampule upside down and squeeze gently to ensure a leak is not present.
- Attach the tubing to the air output nozzle of the compressor.
- Attach the other end to the bottom of the nebulizer.
- Twist the top off the ampule of Pulmozyme
- Empty the contents into the medicine cup of the nebulizer.
- Now, attach the mouthpiece or face mask to the nebulizer.
- Check to ensure the tubing is properly connected to the bottom of the nebulizer.
- Turn the compressor on. You should see mist being generated.
- The mouthpiece should be placed between teeth and tongue. The tongue should not block the flow of medicine.
- Take slow, deep breaths, making sure to avoid nose breathing.
- Toward the end of the treatment when the nebulizer begins spitting, gently tap the medicine cup to ensure all medicine has been used.
- When the mist subsides, your treatment is complete.
For answers to common questions about how Pulmozyme works, please visit our FAQ page.
Commit to your care.
We often hear patients say that their nebulizers can be an unwanted reminder of CF. Want to learn ways to include treatment in your day so that it's more like a routine than a reminder? Visit CFLiving.com for tips and advice. Your doctor can also help you find ways to fit treatment time into your schedule and lifestyle.