Respreeza

Indicated For

alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, emphysema

About This Medication

# CSL Behring Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Respreeza (Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Human) at Low or No Cost Respreeza, also known as alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor (human), is a vital treatment from CSL Behring for adults with severe alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD), a genetic condition that causes low levels of the alpha-1 protein, leading to progressive emphysema and lung damage.[3][4][8] This patient-friendly guide explains CSL Behring's patient assistance programs, which help uninsured or underinsured patients access therapies like Respreeza for free or low cost, though specific details for Respreeza may require direct contact with the manufacturer.[1][6] ## About Respreeza and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) **AATD** is a hereditary disorder where the body doesn't produce enough alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT), a protein that protects the lungs from damage caused by inflammation and enzymes like neutrophil elastase. Without sufficient AAT, patients develop emphysema earlier than usual, often in their 30s or 40s, even if they never smoked. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, and frequent lung infections. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests showing AAT levels below 11 μM (50 mg/dL), genetic testing for genotypes like PiZZ, PiZ(null), Pi(null,null), or PiSZ, and evidence of lung disease such as reduced FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second).[3][4][5][8] **Respreeza** is a highly purified AAT derived from human plasma, administered intravenously once weekly at 60 mg/kg body weight. It raises AAT levels in the blood and lung fluid, slowing emphysema progression by preserving lung tissue, as proven in the RAPID trial and its extension study. First infusions must be supervised by a healthcare professional experienced in AATD; later ones can be self-administered or by a caregiver after training. It's for maintenance therapy in patients on optimal treatments showing progressive lung issues like low FEV1, poor walking capacity, or exacerbations.[3][7][8] In the US, Respreeza is marketed as Zemaira, approved by the FDA in 2003 for chronic augmentation in symptomatic emphysema patients with AAT deficiency.[4] Lifelong therapy is often needed, costing tens of thousands annually, making assistance programs essential.[4] ## Who Qualifies for CSL Behring Assistance? CSL Behring offers patient assistance for qualified uninsured or underinsured patients unable to afford therapies. While Respreeza/Zemaira-specific details aren't listed separately, general programs cover plasma-derived products and provide free medication.[1][6] Eligibility typically includes: - Confirmed diagnosis of severe AATD with emphysema. - US residency (programs are US-focused).[1] - Financial need: Limited or no prescription coverage, inability to pay. CSL also has Assurance Programs for insurance lapses and nurse support, but Respreeza participation needs verification.[1] Contact CSL Behring to confirm Respreeza inclusion, as it's not explicitly in some brand lists.[1] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income thresholds for CSL Behring's program are not publicly detailed in available resources; eligibility is assessed case-by-case for those who 'cannot afford' medications. Many similar programs use **400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** as a guideline. For 2026, approximate thresholds (subject to change; verify with program): | Household Size | Annual Income Limit (400% FPL) | |----------------|-------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | $60,320 | | 2 (Couple) | $81,760 | | 3 | $103,200 | | 4 | $124,640 | *Add ~$21,440 per additional member. Notes: May consider assets, expenses, insurance. Exact criteria via application.*[6] ## Insurance Requirements Programs target **uninsured or underinsured** patients. Medicare Part D or commercial insurance with high copays/deductibles may qualify if out-of-pocket costs are unaffordable. CSL's Assurance helps during coverage lapses. Medicare patients: Check for Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) eligibility first, as PAPs often exclude full LIS recipients. Provide proof of denial or high costs.[1][9] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm Diagnosis**: Get prescription from AATD specialist; ensure genotyping and AAT levels documented.[8] 2. **Gather Documents**: Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s last 1-2 years), insurance denial (if insured), ID, prescription.[6] 3. **Contact CSL Behring**: Call patient support (e.g., via general line; specific phone not listed—use website contact form).[1] 4. **Download/Request Application**: Available on CSL Behring site under Patient Assistance.[1][6] 5. **Physician Completion**: Doctor fills clinical sections (diagnosis, dosing: 60 mg/kg weekly IV).[8] 6. **Submit**: Mail/fax/upload. Patient and doctor sign.[6] 7. **Follow Up**: Track status by phone. ## Timeline and Delivery Processing typically takes **2-4 weeks**, but up to 8 weeks during peaks. Once approved, expect **up to 3-month supply** shipped free to home or doctor's office. Refills auto-processed if eligible; reauthorization may apply annually.[1][9] In-home nurse training available for new users.[1] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Other PAPs**: Search RxAssist.org for AAT therapies (e.g., Prolastin, Glassia).[6] - **State Programs**: Check Medicaid, specialty pharmacy copay cards. - **Manufacturer Alternatives**: CSL Free Trial (if new; not confirmed for Respreeza), Hizentra Connect model.[1] - **Foundations**: Alpha-1 Foundation for grants.[4] - **Generic/Biosimilars**: None listed; all AAT are plasma-derived, no biosimilars.[ ] - **Clinical Trials**: Via ClinicalTrials.gov for expanded access.[2] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available data as of 2026. CSL Behring programs change; **always verify directly** with CSL Behring (via cslbehring.com patients page).[1] Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor for treatment suitability. Assistance not guaranteed; individual results vary. Costs estimates approximate.[3][4]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026