Comment from Claude Breithaupt
AnonymousSupportIndividual
Summary: An individual with Alpha-Gal syndrome is requesting mandatory labeling and ingredient information for drugs, vaccines, and medications. They argue that current labeling is insufficient for patients with severe allergies and that clear information is necessary for both patients and first responders to make safe medical decisions.
I am an Alpha-Gal patient who experiences severe allergic reactions to trace ingredients, especially gelatin and lactose. I consistently find it very difficult to find medications I can be sure are safe, and labeling of mammal products on foods and medications would be immensely helpful and potentially lifesaving. I have tried to fill prescriptions and explained to pharmacists what Alpha-gal syndrome is and they had no idea what to do. Several tried to access their typical ingredient/allergy database and they simply shrugged and said "there's nothing." I also worry first responders and physicians in an emergency situation may not have awareness or be able to access information that could affect a life-saving decision or result in inadvertently causing a severe allergic reaction. I wear a medic alert and do not want a physician making critical decisions to think twice about whether the medication is safe or whether there is potential for a reaction. We urgently need specific labeling and ingredient information for drugs, vaccines and medications. Thank you.