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It is estimated that there are 100,000 Americans who have alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency.1
Alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency is the most
prevalent, potentially fatal hereditary disease
of Caucasians, having a greater prevalence in
adults than cystic fibrosis. Additionally, it is responsible for up to 3% of chronic obstructive lung
disease (COPD) cases in the United States. Affected individuals have an increased risk of liver
disease, and a markedly increased risk of
severe, early-onset pulmonary emphysema,
particularly if they smoke.
The decreased levels of AAT in the plasma
and lungs of such individuals increase the
potential for lung tissue injury due to relatively
unopposed activity of neutrophil elastase, an
enzyme carried in polymorphonuclear leukocytes.
In the United States, fewer than 5% of all
individuals with AAT deficiency have been
detected. Many of the remaining 95% are thought
to be suffering from respiratory symptoms,
but carrying incorrect diagnoses such as
chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma.
Reference:
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Buist S. Alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency—diagnosis,
treatment, and control: identification of patients.
(Lung). 1990;168 Suppl:543-551. |
Important Safety Information
Prolastin®, Alpha1-Proteinase Inhibitor (Human) is indicated for chronic replacement therapy of individuals having congenital deficiency of alpha-1 PI (alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency) with clinically demonstrable panacinar emphysema. Weekly Prolastin® therapy has demonstrated a low occurrence of side effects. In clinical studies with Prolastin®, reactions were observed in 1.16% of infusions, the most common events being fever (0.77%), light-headedness (0.19%), and dizziness (0.19%). As with all plasma-derived therapeutics, the potential to transmit infectious agents cannot be totally eliminated. Individuals with selective IgA deficiencies who have known antibody against IgA (anti-IgA antibody) should not receive Prolastin®, since these patients may experience severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, to IgA which may be present.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs
to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Please click here for Prolastin® full Prescribing Information.
Remember, your doctor or healthcare provider is the single best source of information regarding you and your health. Please consult your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any questions about your health or any of your medications.
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