(Minnesota) – February 5th, 2024- – In a positive development for individuals with allergies, legislators are considering the ADINA Act, a groundbreaking initiative led by Representative Dean Phillips. The ADINA Act is a bill that would amend the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to require labeling of major food allergens or gluten-containing grains on drugs intended for human use and hold medications to the same labeling standards as food products.
For instance, if you’re taking medication, the ADINA Act would require the label to specify whether the drug contains any of the following major food allergens:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Fish
- Crustacean shellfish
- Tree nuts
- Peanuts
- Wheat
- Soybeans
- Sesame seeds
The goal of the ADINA Act is to make sure that patients know what top allergen or gluten-derived ingredients are in their medications. The bill is endorsed by 14 celiac and food allergy advocacy groups.
The ADINA Act, named after Maple Grove resident Adina, who experienced a severe allergic reaction to prescribed amoxicillin, has gained widespread support. The proposed legislation underscores the need for transparency in medication labeling, particularly for those with conditions like Celiac disease.
Representative Dean Phillips’ leadership in driving the ADINA Act has been lauded as a proactive step towards addressing gaps in medication safety. The legislation seeks to bring about crucial changes in the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring that patients are better informed about potential allergens in their prescribed medications.
Despite the positive momentum, concerns arise as Representative Phillips is not seeking re-election, leaving the fate of the bill uncertain. However, Reps. Mike Gallagher (R-WI), Mike Lawler (R-NY), and Mike Sherrill (D-NJ) are also cosigners on this bipartisan Allergen Disclosure In Non-Food Articles (ADINA) Act. Senator Richard Blumenthal (CT) introduced a companion in the Senate. Rep. Gallagher has been a strong supporter of food allergy legislation, like the ADINA Act, throughout his time in Congress.
The ADINA Act has sparked a broader conversation about the need for increased accountability and transparency in the pharmaceutical sector.
Photo Credit: WatersPhotography
One parent, Lana, shared her journey of discovering potential allergens in her daughter Terra’s thyroid medication, highlighting the broader issue of undisclosed ingredients and the challenges parents face in ensuring medication safety. Lana, a former lead engineer at 3M, has been advocating for enhanced transparency in the manufacturing processes of medications.
The pharmaceutical industry’s response to patient inquiries has come under scrutiny, with calls for greater openness about sub-ingredients and manufacturing details. As the positive momentum builds around the ADINA Act, parents and advocacy groups are encouraging individuals who have encountered allergens in their medications to join the ADINA efforts.
The Facebook group dedicated to ADINA Act awareness (https://www.facebook.com/groups/3347959928865461/?ref=share&mibextid=CTbP7E) has become a hub for sharing experiences, raising awareness, and building a collective voice for medication safety.
In addition, a petition has been started to encourage members of Congress to support the bill. You can find the petition here: Tell Congress: Allergens in Medicine Should Be Labeled Just Like Our Food – Support the ADINA Act Today (thepetitionsite.com)
In the spirit of hope and positive change, the ADINA Act represents a significant step towards ensuring that patients, especially those with allergies, can confidently and safely manage their health with the support of clear and comprehensive medication labels.
