Prolastin (Alpha) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Prolastin

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease »

What is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is comprised primarily of three related conditions - chronic bronchitis, chronic asthma, and emphysema. In each condition there is chronic obstruction of the flow of air through the airways and out of the lungs, and the obstruction generally is permanent and may be progressive over time.

While asthma features obstruction to the flow of air out of the lungs, usually, the obstruction is reversible. Between "attacks" of asthma the flow of air through the airways typically is normal. These patients do not have COPD. However, if asthma is left untreated, the chronic inflammation associated with this disease can cause the airway obstruction to become fixed. That is, between attacks, the asthmatic patient may then have abnormal air flow. This process is referred to as lung remodeling. These asthma patients with a fixed component of airway obstruction are also considered to have COPD.

Often patien...

Read the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease article »

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Prolastin

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Prolastin Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

ALPHA-1-PROTEINASE INHIBITOR - INJECTION

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Prolastin

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.