Alpha 1-antitrypsin
Why is it prescribed?
Alpha1-antitrypsin is indicated for the treatment of congenital alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency in adults who have developed emphysema.
Products that have this ingredient include •Prolastin-C® •Glassia® •
See other drugs used in the treatment of •congenital alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency •
Alpha1-antitrypsin replacement therapy is usually very well tolerated. The following side effects may occur:
- fever
- lightheadedness
- dizziness
- flu- like symptoms
- allergic-like reactions
- chills
- trouble breathing
- abnormal heartbeat
- changes in blood pressure
- chest pain
If you experience any of the above side effects, contact your health care provider.
Alpha1-antitrypsin is a naturally occurring protein in the body which protects the lungs. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AAT deficiency) is an inherited condition that raises your risk for lung and liver disease.
Symptoms of AAT deficiency include:
- Shortness of breath and wheezing
- Repeated lung infections
- Tiredness
- Rapid heartbeat upon standing
- Vision problems
- Weight loss
Therapy with alpha1-antitrypsin restores blood levels of this protein to a desired level.
- Alpha1-antitrypsin is made from human blood and therefore carries the risk of transmitting some viruses or illnesses. Discuss this risk with yor physician.
- Alpha1-antitrypsin must only be given by the intravenous route.
- You should not use this medication if you are allergic to albumin or to any ingredient in the formulation or component of the container.
- You should not use this medicine if your body does not make enough immunoglobulin A (IgA), which could cause you to have an allergic reaction to blood products that contain IgA.
Use in pregnancy: It is not known whether this medication can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. It should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.
Use in breastfeeding: It is not known if this medication is passed into breast milk. Consult doctor or pharmacist before using