alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor - injection, Prolastin
GENERIC NAME: ALPHA-1-PROTEINASE INHIBITOR - INJECTION
BRAND NAME(S): Prolastin
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat lung problems (emphysema) caused by a certain inherited disease (alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor deficiency). In people with this condition, lung damage is caused by elastase, a natural substance that the body needs to kill bacteria in the lungs. Normally, a protein (alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor) stops elastase from working when it is no longer needed. However, in people who do not make enough of this protein, elastase does not stop working and damages the lungs. This medication replaces the missing alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor and helps to prevent further lung damage.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein, usually once a week or as directed by your doctor.If you are giving this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package and from your health care professional. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. If your brand of medication is stored in the refrigerator, allow the medication and mixing solution to warm to room temperature before mixing. Do not shake the mixed drug. Doing so may decrease the effectiveness of this medication.Before using, check the product visually for particles or discoloration. Occasionally, a few small particles may remain in the vial. These particles will be removed by the filter provided with the medication. If the product is discolored, do not use the liquid.Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist for details.Dosage is based on your weight, medical condition and response to treatment.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark a reminder on a calendar and use it on the same day each week.Tell your doctor if your condition worsens after several weeks.
SIDE EFFECTS: Pain at the injection site, fever, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, numb/tingling skin, and muscle aches may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.This medication is made from human blood. There is a very small chance that you may get infections from this medication (including viral infections such as hepatitis, parvovirus B19), even though careful screening of blood donors, special manufacturing processes, and many tests are all used to reduce this risk. Discuss the benefits and risks of treatment with your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any signs of hepatitis or other infection, including persistent fever, persistent sore throat, stuffy nose, unusual tiredness, unusual drowsiness, joint pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, stop receiving the drug and seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: hives, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), chest tightness, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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