What is Glassia? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Jan 25, 2023

Glassia overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Aralast NP, Glassia, Prolastin-C, Zemaira

Generic Names:

  • Glassia

Uses:

  • Treats emphysema.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Blood Modifier Agent

Forms:

  • Injectable

How it’s taken:

  • By injection

What is Glassia used for?

Glassia is an intravenous solution that is taken once per week to help patients who lack alpha 1-antitrypsin in their body due to being diagnosed with emphysema. This drug is prescribed to adults only.

What form(s) does Glassia come in?

  • Injectable

What are common Glassia dosages?

  • Solution 1000mg/50ml

Glassia images - What does Glassia look like?

  • Glassia
    1000mg/50ml solution

How to take Glassia

  • Injection routeYour doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.

  • This medicine is usually given once a week on a regular schedule.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • Injection routeYou may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Record and keep a treatment infusion log. This includes information, such as lot number, time, date, and any reactions.

What to do if you miss a dose of Glassia

Glassia contraindications - Who shouldn't take Glassia?

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor.

Glassia warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • This medicine is made from donated human blood. All donated blood is tested for certain viruses. Although your risk for getting a virus from the medicine is very low, talk with your doctor if you have concerns. Your doctor may give you a hepatitis B vaccine before you receive this medicine.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

  • Worsening of breathing problems

Glassia interactions & what to avoid when taking Glassia

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

  • This medicine is made from donated human blood. All donated blood is tested for certain viruses. Although your risk for getting a virus from the medicine is very low, talk with your doctor if you have concerns. Your doctor may give you a hepatitis B vaccine before you receive this medicine.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Glassia side effects - How does Glassia make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Change in how much or how often you urinate, painful or difficult urination

  • Chest tightness or discomfort

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

  • Worsening of breathing problems

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed

  • Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest

  • Muscle or bone pain or discomfort