Medications: A hidden source of gluten

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune digestive disease characterized by inflammation and destruction of the small bowel mucosa after it has been exposed to gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. Gluten is the storage protein in wheat, rye and barley. Although food is generally thought to be the primary source of gluten intake, medications are a hidden source of gluten that can cause potentially long-term intestinal damage and exacerbate celiac symptoms. The Food Allergen Labeling Consumer Protection Act of 2004 requires packaged food labels to name all ingredients containing wheat and other common allergens. No similar requirements exist for medications, leaving physicians, pharmacists and patients with limited access to information about gluten in medications.