In Brief

Banning gluten-containing source ingredients from OTC drugs and dietary supplements unnecessarily would disrupt the supply chain and may limit the availability of important health care products in the U.S., the Consumer Healthcare Products Association argues. The trade group’s March 20 comment responds to FDA’s December request for information on gluten in drug products Also see "In Brief" - Pink Sheet, 9 January, 2012.. CHPA explains certain ingredients in OTC drugs and supplements are derived from wheat, barley and rye, which can sicken people with celiac disease. However, the association says the amount of gluten in finished OTCs where gluten is not intentionally added is “minute, especially when compared to intake via the food supply.” CHPA explains ingredient processing significantly reduces or eliminates gluten in the final product.

Sen. Dick Durbin requests FDA act against high-caffeine energy drinks following the December death of a Maryland 14-year-old who suffered...