Pill Clarity
Jul 1, 2025
New article by Pill Clarity Co-founder and CEO Dr. Sachin A. Shah reveals how a tick-borne allergy may accelerate heart disease and complicate cardiac treatment
A newly published article in ACC Cardiology Magazine by Dr. Sachin A. Shah, PharmD, FACC, Co-founder and CEO of Pill Clarity, is bringing national attention to the hidden cardiovascular dangers of Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) — a tick-borne allergic condition increasingly recognized as a potential cardiovascular risk factor.
AGS, traditionally known for causing delayed allergic reactions to red meat, is now linked to accelerated atherosclerosis, increased plaque vulnerability, and dangerous hypersensitivity to commonly used cardiac medications and devices.
“This isn’t just a food allergy,” said Dr. Shah. “Alpha-Gal Syndrome has real, potentially life-threatening implications in cardiology. Yet many clinicians remain unaware.”
According to the CDC, an estimated 450,000 Americans may be affected by AGS, with prevalence as high as 35% in certain regions of the southern, midwestern, and mid-Atlantic U.S. Despite this, awareness in cardiology remains limited — and many products used in routine cardiovascular care may pose significant risks to sensitized patients.
Highlights from the ACC Cardiology Article:
Alpha-gal IgE sensitization was associated with greater atheroma burden and high-risk plaque morphology in two large imaging-based studies.
Heparin, gelatin-based surgical products, and animal-derived bioprosthetic valves can cause severe allergic reactions in AGS patients.
A 2023 patient survey revealed that 92% of AGS patients had to change medications due to reactions, with 50% reporting anaphylaxis.
Excipient-level ingredient transparency is crucial, as some medications contain hidden risks — even seemingly benign drugs like statins or anticoagulants.
The Role of Pill Clarity in Supporting Clinicians and Patients
Pill Clarity, a free national medical information center, was created to address the growing need for ingredient transparency in medications. Founded by pharmacists, the platform helps patients and healthcare professionals identify mammalian-free and allergy-friendly alternatives to commonly used drugs and over-the-counter products.
“At Pill Clarity, we’re solving a problem the healthcare system has overlooked — helping patients find medications that are safe for their unique dietary, religious, or allergic needs,” Dr. Shah explained.
Over 75% of AGS-related medication inquiries submitted to Pill Clarity are matched with safe alternatives.
The platform also supports 33 million Americans with food allergies, as well as individuals who require vegan, Halal, or Kosher medications.
In a landscape where formulations vary between manufacturers, Pill Clarity acts as a trusted partner in helping clinicians make safer, informed decisions.
Looking Ahead: Advocacy and Innovation
The article underscores the need for updated policies, greater transparency, and proactive care models. Highlights include:
A 2023 Citizen Petition to the FDA, calling for mandatory labeling of animal-derived components.
Growing interest in bioengineered alpha-gal–free devices for safer valve replacements and vascular grafts.
The importance of collaborating with pharmacists and allergists in the perioperative setting, especially in regions with high AGS prevalence.
“Until federal regulations catch up, clinicians must lead the way,” Dr. Shah said. “We must ask more questions, verify ingredients, and support patients navigating this complex condition.”
About Dr. Sachin A. Shah
Dr. Sachin A. Shah, PharmD, FACC is a professor of pharmacy at the University of the Pacific, a cardiovascular researcher, and the Co-founder and CEO of Pill Clarity. With over 100 scientific publications and a passion for health equity, he is leading efforts to bring transparency and patient-centered safety into modern medicine.
Read the full article in ACC Cardiology Magazine:“Life-Altering Consequences of a Tick Bite: The Overlooked Cardiac Implications of Alpha-Gal Syndrome” by Dr. Sachin A. Shah, PharmD, FACC – July 2025 Issue