Glassia (also known as Aralast, Aralast NP, Glassia, Prolastin, Prolastin-C, Zemaira, alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor) is a biologic therapy used to treat emphysema, a type of COPD caused by lung disease. This disease is a result of a deficiency in alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT).
AAT is a vital protein made by the liver that helps protect the lungs by blocking neutrophil elastase from damaging lung tissues. Neutrophil elastase is activated anytime there is inflammation present and helps kill harmful cells.
AAT acts as a barrier to protect the body’s own healthy cells from this damaging immune system response. When there is not enough AAT, the body can’t protect itself, so the neutrophil elastase unintentionally damages healthy cells as well. This long-term damage in the lungs leads to emphysema.
Glassia treats AAT deficiency related emphysema by increasing the levels of AAT in your body, protecting your lungs from further damage. AAT deficiency is a genetic condition for which there is no cure. If left untreated, this condition can be fatal. Long-term care and maintenance are very important to ensure effective treatment and promote lung health.
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15 minutes
Once per week
Glassia cost can vary depending on several factors including insurance status and insurance provider. At Pure Infusion Suites, we are committed to lowering costs and improving access for our patients. Our team of patient access coordinators are here to set you up for success.
We work with a growing list of insurance providers, and are always working to ensure claims/authorizations are processed efficiently. All patients are enrolled in co-pay assistance programs to assist in covering costs of treatment.
Additionally, data from an Artemetrx report shows average costs at an outpatient hospital facility are more than 3X higher than costs at an ambulatory infusion center. That means we save our patients’ money, while offering a more comfortable experience
Before your infusion, it is important to drink plenty of water and come to your appointment hydrated. Additionally, you must alert us as soon as possible to any changes in your insurance to ensure that we are still an in-network provider for your infusion therapy.