Today's Perspective
Kristin Wiisanen PharmD, FAPhA, FCCP, Pharmacy Today editor in chief
Food allergies are on the rise, with an estimated 33 million Americans living with food allergies today.
Although research is ongoing to determine the exact cause, experts say that genetics, immune system development, and other factors such as an increase in asthma and allergic diseases overall or dietary changes may play a role in their increased prevalence. Common food culprits include dairy, eggs, wheat, nuts, soy, sesame, and fish or shellfish.
This month’s Pharmacy Today cover story provides the latest information on food allergies and how pharmacists can help prevent mishaps. While epinephrine autoinjectors are a mainstay of treating allergy emergencies, there are also new food allergy preventive strategies on the horizon, including omalizumab, peanut oral allergen powder, or oral immuno-therapy. From ensuring patients have access to injectable epinephrine and counseling them on its appropriate use to double-checking inactive ingredients for potential allergens in medicines and vaccines, pharmacists play an essential role in helping patients with food allergies stay safe. Learn more about emerging preventive therapies and steps you can take in your pharmacy in this month’s cover story.
In this issue of Pharmacy Today, you’ll also read the latest on using glutathione to prevent aging, FDA’s approval of tirzepatide to treat sleep apnea in adults with obesity, and tips for educating patients about acetaminophen overdose. Learn more about the risk of hip fracture with gabapentinoids, how artificial intelligence is affecting pharmacy practice, and catch up with your CPE with this month’s article on cybersecurity and HIPAA compliance.
Food Allergy Awareness Week is just around the corner in May 2025. Find helpful resources for your pharma-cy for this upcoming event at FoodAllergyAwareness.org, including educational posters and teaching resources for children. You can also help patients stay safe by learning more about this important issue and how to advo-cate for patients in your community. Food allergies are scary to adults and children alike. Reassure your patients that prevention and management plans go a long way to avoiding serious allergic reactions.
Have a great Today! ■