Patient Education

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Alpha 1-Antitrypsin Injection (ALPHA-1-PROTEINASE INHIBITOR - INJECTION)

For chronic lung disease (COPD).

Generic Name: Alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor, human

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

The liquid should be clear.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Gently swirl to mix the medicine. Do not shake.

Store at room temperature or in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Do not store above 77 degrees F (25 degrees C).

If your medicine is stored in the refrigerator, take it out of the refrigerator before use to warm to room temperature.

Inject the medicine immediately after mixing.

Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Discard mixed medicine after 3 hours at room temperature.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

You or a family member can be trained to give this medicine at home.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

It is very important that you follow your doctor's instructions for all blood tests.

Do not use more than 1 dose each week.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • muscle pain

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • fever
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • sore throat

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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