See why thousands of patients choose our centers as their preferred destination for ongoing care, including Glassia Infusion treatments.
Glassia is a biologic therapy that is indicated to treat:
- adults with clinically evident emphysema due to severe hereditary deficiency of Alpha1-PI (alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency).
What is Glassia?
What Is Glassia?
Glassia (alpha1–proteinase inhibitor) is a prescription medication administered for patients in all IVX Health centers via IV infusion.
How Glassia Works
Alpha1 is a protein that circulates in your bloodstream and helps protect the elastic structures of your lungs from an enzyme that can attack normal body tissue. A severe deficiency of Alpha1 can lead to emphysema.
Glassia works by increasing levels of Alpha1 in the blood and lungs.
Glassia Infusion Dosage & Administration
Glassia Infusion Dosage and Administration
Patients receive alpha1–proteinase inhibitor intravenously. Treatment time for a Glassia infusion at a medical clinic like IVX Health usually lasts for around 15 minutes.
Dosage and Frequency
Before receiving their first intravenous infusion of alpha1–proteinase inhibitor, the ordering physician determines the patient’s dose. This dose depends on the patient’s weight as well as the severity of the condition for which they are receiving treatment.
Patients typically receive their doses of Glassia once a week.
Administering Glassia via IV Infusion
- The nurse prepares the patient’s arm by using rubbing alcohol to sterilize the location that is being used to insert the IV needle.
- Following needle insertion, the IV line is held in place with tape.
- The nurse attaches the patient’s IV line to the line coming down from the bag of medication.
Glassia Side Effects
Glassia Infusion Side Effects
As with all medications, side effects are possible.
Side effects include:
- Headache
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Cough
- Sinus infection
- Chest discomfort
- Dizziness
- Increased liver enzymes
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Severe allergic reactions
Preparing for Your Glassia Infusion
Follow these steps to prepare for your Glassia Infusion:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
- Medical History Review: Ensure your healthcare provider has a complete and up-to-date medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past reactions to Infusion.
- Pre-Infusion Testing: Complete any required blood tests or other pre-Infusion tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Pre-Infusion Medications
- Prescription Pre-Medications: Your Glassia Infusion may require pre-medications to reduce the risk of a reaction or adverse event. Your referring provider will include any pre-medications when sending in your prescription order.
- Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications, including the timing and dosage. Take these medications about 30-60 minutes before the Infusion as directed.
Hydration and Nutrition
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your Infusion to ensure you are well-hydrated.
- Eat Light: Have a light meal before your Infusion to help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
Prepare for Comfort
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your arms for the Infusion site.
- Entertainment: Bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, tablet, or music, as your treatment or observation period may take several hours.
Plan for Transportation
- Arrange a Ride: Depending on the medication and your reaction to the Infusion, you might not feel well enough to drive yourself home. Consider arranging for someone to drive you or use a ride service.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Glassia Infusion is as safe and comfortable as possible. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.
How to Get a Referral for Glassia
Every Glassia Infusion referral must be accompanied by a physician’s order for treatment.
Patient information should include:
- Name
- Current address
- Home and mobile phone number
- Insurance information
Information the physician must include on the patient’s order for therapy:
- Patient’s name and DOB
- Order date
- Diagnosis
- Physician’s name and NPI#
- Office address, phone, and fax numbers
- Provider’s signature
Clinical documentation from the physician should include information to support a diagnosis for one or more of the following:
- adults with clinically evident emphysema due to severe hereditary deficiency of Alpha1-PI (alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency).
If you or someone you care about has one of the conditions that Glassia treats, IVX Health would be honored to provide your care. To find an IVX Health center near you, please click here.
Patients choose IVX Health for ongoing Glassia treatments because:
- ALL private suites
- Comfortable recliners, with chairs for guests
- Evening & weekend appointments
- Friendly clinical staff deliver personal service
- Big screen TVs, high-speed WiFi, free snacks
Interested in moving your care to IVX Health?
Interested?
IVX Health would love to learn more about your care needs. If you’re interested in switching your infusion services – or if you just want to learn more – let us know.
