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 being damaged by this 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.  

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 required to treat this condition and promote lung health.  

Glassia is used to treat AAT deficiency related emphysema because it increases the levels of AAT in your body, protecting your lungs from further damage.