Aralast AATmosphere Offers Vital Resources to Help Patients Manage Chronic Condition

 

DEERFIELD, Ill., March 27, 2007 – Baxter Healthcare Corporation announced today a new program to provide comprehensive support to patients with alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency, as well as to the physicians who treat the deficiency. The program, called Aralast AATmosphere, includes one-on-one support, insurance assistance and a Knowledge Network.

 

Patients and physicians can enroll in the program through a toll-free number, 1-866-ARALAST, or through the Web site, www.aatmosphere.com. Enrollment kits also will be available in physician offices.

 

AAT deficiency, also known as Alpha-1 or hereditary emphysema, is a genetically linked condition that is characterized by a low level of AAT protein in the blood. This protein, which is made in the liver, helps protect lung tissue from damaging enzymes released by white blood cells. According to the American Lung Association, up to 95 percent of those with AAT deficiency are undiagnosed and the condition can result in early onset emphysema and premature death if untreated. Management of Alpha-1 typically includes weekly infusions of an alpha1-proteinase inhibitor (A 1-PI) augmentation therapy to raise concentrations of the AAT protein in the blood and lungs.

 

Aralast AATmosphere is designed to help both newly diagnosed and existing patients successfully manage AAT deficiency with a continuous support system that includes:

• One-on-one support. A registered nurse specializing in Alpha-1 is available to answer questions about treatment and provide input on what to expect during and after therapy, the importance of testing family members for the condition and tips on protecting respiratory health. Patient advocates who have the disease also are available to share their experiences regarding the challenges of living with the condition, including ways to cope at home and at work, and how AAT deficiency affects the entire family.
• Insurance assistance. A reimbursement specialist will help patients verify benefits and explore their options to eliminate any potential barriers to starting or sustaining therapy.
• Knowledge Network. Patients can enroll to receive updates on therapy trends and breakthroughs, a program newsletter and other Alpha-1 resources.

 

“As an Alpha-1 patient, I know firsthand the challenges of this disease and the anxiety of feeling unsure about where to turn for advice,” said Jamie Tiedemann, one of the program’s patient advocates. “Aralast AATmosphere allows patients to access the information and support they need all in one place.”

 

Aralast AATmosphere also provides support to physicians who treat Alpha-1 patients by assisting with therapy initiation, insurance issues, nursing coordination and handling the day-to-day concerns of Alpha-1 patients and their families. By contacting Aralast AATmosphere, physicians can reduce the time spent communicating with private payers, Medicare and Medicaid agencies, receive assistance with managing and educating patients and stay informed about ongoing Alpha-1 education and research opportunities.

 

“Aralast AATmosphere allows us to further our commitment to physicians and patients with an environment encompassing Alpha-1 support,” said Larry Guiheen, President, Baxter BioPharmaceuticals. “The program was based on physician input on what was needed to offer the best care to patients. Now, with one phone call or Web visit, we hope to help elevate the ability to successfully manage this chronic condition and make a difference in the lives of those affected by Alpha-1.”

 

About Baxter

 

Baxter Healthcare Corporation is the principal U.S. operating subsidiary of Baxter International Inc. (NYSE: BAX). Baxter International Inc., through its subsidiaries, assists healthcare professionals and their patients with treatment of complex medical conditions, including cancer, hemophilia, immune disorders, kidney disease and trauma. The company applies its expertise in medical devices, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives. For more information about Baxter, please visit www.baxter.com.

 

 

About ARALAST and Important Safety Information

 

ARALAST [Alpha 1-Proteinase Inhibitor (Human)] is indicated for chronic augmentation therapy in patients having congenital deficiency of A 1-PI with clinically evident emphysema. ARALAST is not indicated as therapy for lung disease patients in whom congenital A 1-PI deficiency has not been established.

• ARALAST is contraindicated in individuals with selective IgA deficiencies (IgA level less than 15 mg/dL) who have known antibody against IgA, since they may experience severe reactions, including a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction to IgA, which may be present.
• The most common symptoms during the clinical study were headache (0.3%) and sleepiness (0.3%). Post-market adverse event data have indicated reports of infusion site pain associate with the administration of ARALAST.
• Pregnancy Category C, reproduction studies have note been conducted with ARALAST.
• As with all plasma-derived therapeutics, the potential to transmit infectious agents cannot be totally eliminated.

Please see ARALAST Prescribing Information for full prescribing details.