Skip to main content

alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor


Brand: Aralast NP, Glassia, Prolastin-C, Zemaira

What is the most important information I should know about alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor?


What is alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor?

Alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor is a protein (alpha 1-antitrypsin) that occurs naturally in the body and helps prevent breakdown of tissues in the lungs. People who lack this protein because of a genetic deficiency can develop damage to the air sacs in the lungs (emphysema).

Alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor is used to treat alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency in people with symptoms of emphysema.

Alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor will not cure alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency, and may not slow the progression of emphysema.

Alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor?

You should not use this medicine if:

  • you've had a severe allergic reaction to an alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor; or
  • you have an IgA (immunoglobulin A) deficiency or antibody against IgA.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • liver disease; or
  • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other breathing disorder.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.


How should I use alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor?


Alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor is injected into a vein, usually once per week.

Your first dose may be given in a medical setting where any serious side effects can be quickly treated.


Be sure you understand how to properly mix the powder form of alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor with a liquid (diluent) and how to store the mixture.

Glassia is a liquid form of alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor that is not mixed with a diluent.




Store Aralast, Prolastin, or Zemaira at cool room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Use within 3 hours after mixing.

Store Glassia in the original carton in the refrigerator. Take the medicine out of the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature before preparing your dose.

Once Glassia has reached room temperature, you must use it within 1 month. Do not return it to a refrigerator.

Do not freeze alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor, and do not use it past the expiration date on the medicine label.

Throw away a vial (bottle) after one use, even if there is still medicine left inside.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?


What should I avoid while taking alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor?


What are the possible side effects of alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, rash; confusion, feeling light-headed; fast heartbeats, chest tightness, difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Your doctor may also prescribe epinephrine (Epi-Pen) to keep with you in case you ever have an allergic reaction to alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor.

Stop using alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • wheezing, chest pain, trouble breathing;
  • dizziness, severe headache;
  • a seizure; or
  • sudden numbness or weakness, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance.

You may feel faint during the injection. You may need to rest for a short time afterward.

Common side effects may include:

  • cold symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat;
  • headache;
  • muscle or joint pain;
  • weakness;
  • nausea; or
  • bruising or bleeding where the medicine was injected.


What other drugs will affect alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor?

Other drugs may affect alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor.



Copyright 1996-2022 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.01. Revision date: 9/27/2021.

