Glassia®
This product is manufactured by Takeda Canada using the ingredient alpha 1-antitrypsin.
This product is taken via intravenous injection.
Why is it prescribed?
Alpha1-antitrypsin is indicated for the treatment of congenital alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency in adults who have developed emphysema.
Alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency is an inherited disorder that causes significant reduction in the naturally occurring protein alpha1-antitrypsin.
Lung disease (emphysema) is the most common problem associated with a deficiency of alpha1-antitrypsin.
Glassia®, made from human plasma, is a concentrated form of alpha1-antitrypsin. Glassia® is given as a replacement therapy to restore blood levels of alpha1-antitrypsin. This may help lessen the risk of developing emphysema.
Glassia® should be stored in the refrigerator. It should not be frozen. Administer within 3 hours after reconstitution.
Alternatives
Other products that have the same ingredient as Glassia® are •Prolastin-C® •
See other products used in the treatment of •congenital alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency •
The recommended dosage is 60mg/kg body weight administered intravenously once weekly. This dose is intended to increase and maintain a level of functional alpha1-antitrypsin in the epithelial lining of the lower respiratory tract.
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 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 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