Empowering Alpha-Gal Patients and Pharmacies: Insights from Debbie's Family Pharmacy
By Andrew Mize and Corrie Newman, Debbie's Family Pharmacy
We recently had the pleasure of joining Debbie and Candice, founders of The Two Alpha Gals, on their podcast to discuss a topic we’re incredibly passionate about—helping Alpha-Gal patients navigate their unique medical needs. As an independent pharmacy that has dedicated itself to serving this community, we’re excited to share our journey, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the resources we’ve developed to make a meaningful impact.
The Growing Need for Alpha-Gal Friendly Pharmacies
Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) has become more prevalent, with patients facing significant hurdles in finding medications free from mammal-derived ingredients. Over the past year, we’ve noticed an uptick in patients seeking our help to find safe medication alternatives. This realization pushed us to go beyond the standard approach, leading us to develop a thorough Alpha-Gal Medication Check service, identify safe over-the-counter products, and label items clearly for patients.
During our conversation with The Two Alpha Gals, we highlighted the steps we’ve taken to ensure that our pharmacy is a haven for AGS patients. From our dedicated Alpha-Gal product section to our medication checks, we’ve designed our process to relieve the stress that comes with managing this condition.
What to Look for in an Alpha-Gal Friendly Pharmacy
For AGS patients seeking a pharmacy that understands their needs, look for the following key characteristics. It’s important to note that a pharmacy doesn't have to meet all these criteria right away, but a willingness to learn and adapt is essential:
Alpha-Gal Safe Medication Checks: Ensure the pharmacy conducts thorough research to confirm that medications and supplements are free from mammal-derived ingredients.
Clear Labeling: Look for pharmacies that clearly label Alpha-Gal safe products, making it easier for patients to navigate the shelves without fear of hidden allergens.
Staff Training: Verify that the pharmacy staff is trained to identify problematic ingredients (such as gelatin, lactose, or magnesium stearate) or is at least willing to learn about AGS-related needs.
Our goal is to make Alpha-Gal safe pharmacy services more accessible. We encourage patients and pharmacies to view this as a learning journey together, promoting a supportive and adaptive approach to AGS care.
Creating a Community: The Alpha-Gal Pharmacy Network
One of the most exciting developments we discussed on the podcast is the launch of our Alpha-Gal Pharmacy Network Facebook group. This group is a place where pharmacy staff can connect, share best practices, and support each other in creating Alpha-Gal safe environments for patients. We believe that collaboration is the key to expanding the availability of Alpha-Gal safe pharmacies, and this group is the perfect platform to foster that growth.
Resources for Patients and Pharmacy Staff
Following our discussion with The Two Alpha Gals, we’re providing essential resources designed to support both patients and pharmacy staff in navigating Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) safely and effectively:
Combined Patient and Pharmacy Resource Guide: This comprehensive guide is tailored to help patients identify pharmacies that can meet their AGS needs while also serving as a valuable tool for pharmacy staff. It outlines the key characteristics of an Alpha-Gal-safe pharmacy, including trained staff, clear labeling of safe products, custom compounding options, and proactive ingredient checking. The guide encourages patients to ask the right questions and collaborate with their pharmacy for safe medication management. (Downloadable link below.)
For pharmacies, the guide serves as a roadmap to becoming more AGS-aware. It includes a QR code linking to the Alpha-Gal Pharmacy Network Facebook group, where pharmacy staff can access further resources, collaborate with other professionals, and share best practices. This group is dedicated to expanding the knowledge and availability of Alpha-Gal-safe practices, with ongoing discussions about safe medications, compounding tips, and how to navigate ingredient sourcing challenges.
By scanning the QR code, pharmacists and technicians can quickly connect with a network of peers who are committed to providing AGS-friendly care. This shared learning environment supports the goal of creating more AGS-safe pharmacies, ultimately benefiting both patients and healthcare providers.
Looking to the Future
Our conversation with The Two Alpha Gals reinforced the importance of this work. Patients dealing with AGS face daily challenges, and by making pharmacies more aware and proactive, we can alleviate some of that burden. We’re incredibly proud to be part of this movement and look forward to seeing how the Alpha-Gal Pharmacy Network helps shape the future of AGS care.
If you’re an AGS patient, know that you’re not alone. Resources are available, and pharmacies like ours are here to help you manage your health safely. And if you’re a pharmacy professional, we invite you to join us.
