What to do if you have Alpha-1

If you have Alpha-1, find out about your treatment options, learn how to manage Alpha-1, and discover what it means if you carry the gene for Alpha-1. Learn more about what to do if you’re Alpha-1.

Doctor Discussion Guide

It is important to talk to your doctor if you have any questions about Alpha-1 or your health. Bring the Doctor Discussion Guide to your primary care doctor first. Some health insurance plans require a referral from your primary care doctor before you see a specialist, such as a pulmonologist. If you are already under the care of a specialist, or if your health insurance plan doesn’t require a referral, have the discussion with your pulmonologist first.

To get started, print the list of questions below, and add any additional questions you wish to discuss with your doctor. Bring the printout with you to your doctor's appointment to help you and your doctor determine if you should be tested for Alpha-1.







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Important Safety Information
Prolastin-C, Alpha1-Proteinase Inhibitor (Human) is for adults who have emphysema caused by inherited alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency. The effect of therapy with any alpha1-proteinase inhibitor (alpha1-PI) on pulmonary exacerbations and on the progression of emphysema in alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency has not been demonstrated in randomized, controlled clinical trials.

Prolastin-C may contain trace amounts of IgA. IgA deficient patients with antibodies against IgA should not receive Prolastin-C due to the risk of hypersensitivity.

The most common side effects during clinical trials with Prolastin-C were chills, a general feeling of being unwell, headache, rash, hot flush, and itching.

Prolastin-C is made from human plasma. Products made from human plasma may carry a risk of transmitting infectious agents, e.g., viruses, and, theoretically, the Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) agent.

Please see accompanying Prolastin-C Full Prescribing Information for complete prescribing details.

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.

References
  1. What is Alpha-1? Alpha-1 Foundation. http://www.alphaone.org/healthcare/?c=01-What-is-Alpha-1-Healthcare. Accessed October 6, 2009.
  2. Köhnlein T, Welte T. Introduction. Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency: Clinical Aspects and Management. Bremen, Germany: Uni-Med Verlag AG; 2007:16-39.