ZLB Bioplasma Inc., a blood plasma product company based in Glendale, Calif., has launched its self-titled University of Plasma, an accredited continuing education (CE) program for doctors, pharmacists and nurses, as part of its newly unveiled Web site, www.zlbusa.com.

Courses at the online university will cover advances in immunology, immune mediated diseases and therapies. Each course will be accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE). U.S. health-care professionals may register for free on the site.

Beginning this spring, ZLB's university will offer three courses: Basics of Immunology, Formulary Considerations Related to IVIG, and ITP Diagnosis and Management. Each course includes one to two hours of reading material, followed by an instantly scored test. Participants with passing grades will receive a certificate of completion from their profession's accrediting body. ZLB plans to roll out additional classes later this year.

"With this online learning program, busy professionals will now be able to complete accredited courses on their own schedules and remain current on the latest issues and developments," Pete DeHart, president, ZLB Bioplasma Inc., said. "With zlbusa.com, we've created a comprehensive resource for caregivers whose time to keep up with medical news and training is limited."

The program content was developed by the University of Illinois Drug Information Center and Jerry Siegel, R.Ph., FASHP, clinical associate professor and senior director of The Ohio State University Medical Center. Siegel is a member of ZLB's Pharmacist Advisory Board.

"The language of immunology continues to be challenging for the health professional," Siegel said. "This CE series will serve to translate and explain the intricacies of immune modulation and the application for treatment of immune mediated disorders."

In addition to the University of Plasma, ZLB's Web site contains educational materials, including frequently asked questions about IVIG treatment and links to patient support groups, for patients and plasma donors. Support services are also available to doctors and pharmacists for technical questions and reimbursement assistance for ZLB's plasma therapies. For more information, visit www.zlbusa.com.