Alpha-gal Syndrome Featured at the Nation’s Biggest Allergy Conference!
- Cora Altomari
- Mar 20
- 4 min read
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology/World Allergy Organization (AAAAI/WAO) conference is a premier global event in the fields of allergy and immunology. Each year, healthcare professionals, researchers, and industry leaders from around the world gather to share groundbreaking research, explore innovative treatments, and foster collaborations aimed at improving patient outcomes. Our team had the privilege of presenting two posters—including a featured presentation—at this year's conference in San Diego!
Featured Poster Presentation
Our first poster, Emerging Need for Animal-Free Medications in Alpha-gal Syndrome, was among the select few featured at the conference. It provided an in-depth look into VeganMed's Medical Information department, shedding light on the significant medication burden faced by alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) patients.
The key takeaways include:
There was a 3 fold increase of AGS related inquiries between quarter 1 and quarter 4 of 2024
Over 75% of inquiries had at least one animal-free alternative
Increased awareness/education regarding AGS is needed for providers and healthcare centers
Pharmaceutical companies must provide transparent labeling and/or a Standard Response Letter (SRL) in a central resource like VeganMed to ensure patient safety
This conference helped highlight just how important the work at VeganMed truly is. The most frequently asked question at our featured poster was: "Can patients really react to medications?" Many providers remain unaware of how many medications (spoiler alert—it's approximately 75% of oral medications) contain animal-derived ingredients, posing a significant risk to alpha-gal patients. That's why navigating medications is hands down one of the most challenging aspects of AGS.
At VeganMed, our medical information department works tirelessly to provide patients with fast, accurate information. We strive to increase medication transparency through our certified animal-free products and standard response letters.
If you need assistance in identifying animal-free prescription or over the counter products, contact us today!
Social Media Insights on Omalizumab and AGS
Our second poster, Role of Omalizumab in Alpha-gal Syndrome Based on Social Media Reports, focused on patient reports of their experience with Xolair use in AGS.
The key takeaways include:
Omalizumab suggests promising outcomes in patients with AGS and focused safety and efficacy trials are warranted in alpha-gal patients
Due to its unique manufacturing processes (CHO cells), transparent labelling is essential for patient safety
84% of patients positive outcomes while 16% experienced negative outcomes
Anaphylaxis was specifically mentioned by one patient
Making an Impact—Together
Throughout the conference, VeganMed proudly collaborated with the Alpha-gal Alliance and the Alpha-gal Foundation to amplify awareness among healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and other institutions. We engaged in insightful conversations with renowned AGS experts, including Dr. Thomas Platts-Mills—the "Father of AGS"—Dr. Scott Commins, Dr. Onyinye Iweala, and Dr. Tina Merritt. Special thanks to Sharon Forsyth and our partners at the Alpha-gal Alliance and Alpha-gal Foundation for creating a vibrant booth rich with valuable resources for both patients and healthcare providers. We couldn’t have reached as many people without your support!
VeganMed’s work was also recognized by two leading physicians in the AGS field during the conference—Dr. Scott Commins in his session, "The Global Impact of Climate Change on Food Allergy," and Dr. Onyinye Iweala in her session, "Managing Patients with Alpha-gal Syndrome and High-risk Comorbidities." We extend our sincere thanks to both for using their platforms to raise awareness of AGS and highlight valuable resources that assist patients and providers in navigating this complex condition.
How can healthcare providers, pharmacies, and pharmaceutical companies help patients with alpha-gal syndrome?
We invite you to partner with us to ensure AGS patients receive safe, informed treatment:
Healthcare Providers: Expand your knowledge of AGS and help patients safely navigate medication choices.
Pharmacies: Collaborate with VeganMed to provide animal-free medication resources for AGS patients.
Pharmaceutical Companies: Work alongside us to develop clear labeling practices and accessible standardized response letters (SRLs).
Collaboration is essential to ensuring AGS patients have safe, transparent, and accurate medication options.
Closing Thoughts- A big thank you to our community
Overall, our team had a wonderful time at this conference presenting our research, spreading awareness and education on AGS, meeting new people, and gaining insights that will help our team continue to support the AGS community.
We especially want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our community. Your continuous support, valuable feedback, and inspiring engagement are truly the driving forces behind everything we do. Without your dedication and advocacy, our work wouldn't be possible. It is because of your voices and experiences that we remain committed and passionate about bringing AGS awareness and patient safety to the forefront of healthcare.
We are grateful for the opportunity to participate and look forward to future events that will allow our team to further support, advocate for, and elevate the AGS community!
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on VeganMed is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates.
Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right—your support helps keep this vital service alive.
Looking for certified and verified animal-free products?
Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients!
As a reminder, please comment on our FDA Citizen Petition, requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference.
If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to reach out to the VeganMed team!
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