Asthma, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are all breathing problems, and they have something else in common: They may be symptoms of
alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

Alpha-1 deficiency, also known as Alpha-1 or AATD, is a genetic form of COPD. CSL Behring provides alpha₁ proteinase inhibitor to treat this chronic lung disease. Alpha₁ antitrypsin is a protein produced in the liver that helps protect the lungs. Alpha-1 deficiency is a condition in which a person has little or no alpha₁ antitrypsin.

Our alpha₁-proteinase inhibitor Zemaira® is indicated for chronic augmentation and maintenance therapy in adults with alpha-1 deficiency and clinical evidence of emphysema.

Alpha-1 is often misdiagnosed as asthma or emphysema because the symptoms are similar: shortness of breath, chronic cough, difficulty breathing, and wheezing.¹ It takes an average of 8.3 years for patients to be diagnosed². During that time, lung damage progresses. Treatment for COPD alone is not sufficient to thwart the gradual decline of lung function that occurs in patients with underlying alpha₁ deficiency³. If untreated, Alpha-1 can cause permanent damage to the lungs. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to help those with Alpha-1 have the fullest life possible.