Cinco de Mayo celebrates the victory of the Mexican army over France at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Cinco de Mayo, also known as Battle of Puebla Day, does not celebrate Mexican Independence Day. Instead, it celebrates a single, pivotal victory within the Franco-Mexican War. Cinco de Mayo is a minor holiday in Mexico. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo evolved to celebrate Mexican culture (History.com 2 009). It's hard to imagine Cinco de Mayo without beer and tequila, but not all options are vegan. Barnivore, a vegan guide, verifies that alcoholic drinks are free of animal products. "Brewmasters, winemakers, and distillers may include animal ingredients in their products directly, or they might use them in the processing and filtration (Barnivore). " In addition to the expected eggs, milk, gelatin, or honey in some alcoholic beverages, there are additional ingredients that can come as a surprise (Vegan Questions 2018). During the fining process to filter the beer and make it clear, bright, and attractive, brewers commonly use casein (a milk ingredient), gelatin, and isinglass (Vegan Questions 2018. Isinglass is a gelatin made from fish swim bladders that has been used as a fining agent in beer since the 19th Century (Barnes 2016). Since isinglass is not a direct ingredient and not considered an allergen, it is rarely listed on the label (Notte 2014). Below are a few verified animal-free alcoholic options perfect for Cinco de Mayo! 1. Grupo Modelo Beers Grupo Modelo Beers is a large Mexican brewery. As of 2012, Modelo was the seventh-largest beer producer in the world (Nafta 2012). Grupo holds several well-known beer trademarks, including Corona, Pacifico, Tropical Light, and Victoria. These popular brands are all animal-free (Garrett 2012, Barnivore). You can read Barnivore's article, " Corona is Vegan Friendly ," for more information. 2. Coors Light Mexico Did you know that a drink can be vegan in one country and not another? Beverage licensing differs from country to country, changing products used in the manufacturing process (Barnivore). One of those products is Coors. Molson Coors Brewing Company is the world's third-largest bewing company(Garrett 2012). Coors-branded beer in Mexico, USA, and Canada are vegan. Coors UK is not animal-free. Coors UK uses isinglass finings in the clarification process. Coors US and Mexico transitioned to an animal-free manufacturing process (Barnivore). Did you know that a drink can be vegan in one country and not another? 3. XX Dos Equis Mexican lagers are one of the most popular beers in the US, including Dos Equis. (Wolinski 2018). Dos Equis is best known for their marketing advertisements - it's hard to forget the "Most Interesting Man In The World" campaign. Not only is Dos Equis memorable, but XX Dos Equis is also vegan! XX Dos Equis commented, " ...te comentamos que ninguna de nuestras cervezas está elaborada con algún producto animal, " which roughly translates to "...we comment that none of our beers are made with animal products." 4. Tequila Fortaleza Tequila Fortaleza is dedicated to traditionally distilling tequila (Tequila Fortaleza). "Tequila Fortaleza does not contain any animal ingredients; it is completely additive free, made only from 100% agave, natural yeast, and water, and is hand bottled on our estate in Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico (Barnivore)." 5. Frank-Lin Distillers, USA "Frank-Lin [USA] does not use any animal ingredients or byproducts in our facility. This includes fining agents such as gelatin or isinglass. Frank-Lin brand products are produced exclusively in Fairfield, California. We do not currently co-pack or co-manufacture any products under our labels (Barnivore)." As such, Frank-Lin's products are animal-free, save for their cream products. Frank-Lin distributes many popular tequila brands including Sol de Mexico Tequila, Senor Rio Tequila, Puente Grande Tequila, and Baja Tequila. De parte de todos aquí en Pill Clarity, ¡tengan un feliz y SEGURO Cinco de Mayo! From everyone here at Pill Clarity, have a happy and SAFE Cinco de Mayo! Alcoholic beverages are intended only for responsible adults of legal drinking age in the United States of America (21 years old or older). Do not drink and drive. Pill Clarity does not advocate or encourage the abuse of alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly and with moderation. References Andrews, Colman, and Grant Suneson. “America's 26 Top-Selling Beers Show That the Country Still Likes a Cold One Now and Then.” USA Today , Gannett Satellite Information Network, 17 Oct. 2018, www.usatoday.com/story/money/food/2018/10/17/beer-consumption-these-americas-26-top-selling-beers/38104743/. Barnes, Liam. "The fishy ingredient in beer that bothers vegetarians." BBC News. 15 September, 2016 . https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-37350233 . “Fortaleza History.” Tequila Fort aleza , tequilafortaleza.com/the-history-of-tequila-fortaleza/. Grupo Modelo. Grupo Modelo , www.gmodelo.mx/es. Grupo Modelo Beers. “Corona Is Vegan Friendly.” Barnivore, Your Vegan Wine and Beer Guide , www.barnivore.com/products/668-corona. History.com Editors. “Cinco De Mayo.” History.com , A&E Television Networks, 23 Oct. 2009, www.history.com/topics/holidays/cinco-de-mayo. Nafta. “North American Free Trade Agreement.” Success Stories | NAFTANow.org , 5 May 2012, www .naftanow.org/success/mexico1_en.html. Notte, Jason. "Why Ingredients Don't Appear on Beer Labels". TheStreet . 24 June, 2014. https://www.thestreet.com/personal-finance/why-ingredients-dont-appear-on-beer-labels-12753874 . Oliver, Garrett. The Oxford Companion to Beer . Oxford University Press, 2012. Vegan Questions. "Can Vegans Drink Beer?" PBN Academy. 6 November, 2018. https://academy.plantbasednews.org/blog/can-vegans-drink-beer . Wolinski, Cat. “9 Things You Should Know About Dos Equis.” VinePair , 21 Dec. 2018, vinepair.com/articles/dos-equis-best-mexican-lager/. Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team ! #cincodemayo #GoAnimalFree #alcohol #veganbeer #vegantequila #healthyliving #vegancelebration

Why did you join the Pill Clarity team? Three things served as a catalyst for starting Pill Clarity a) my own personal beliefs around animal kindness (ahimsa) b) many patients asking me to find medications without animal ingredients and c) a family member (Mitali) asking me a question that opened my eyes to the fact that a majority of meds have animal derived ingredients.....So we decided to solve this problem! What is your favorite animal-free product? Currently, hot water with lemon and ginger (homemade). What was the most shocking thing you discovered about the pharmaceutical industry when you started working here? That manufacturers don't always have the answer to the simple question "does your product contain animal derived ingredients?" What are you doing to help pass the time while sheltering-in-place? I am trying to make sure that my mind is stronger than the 0.12 micron sized coronavirus....in simple terms... trying to maintain a good routine, be positive, be kind, and embrace the changing times. Look for the lion in the background! Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team ! #TeamPillClarity #aboutus #PillClarity #goanimalfree #healthylifestyle

"When the last tree has been cut down, the last fish caught, the last river poisoned, only then will we realize that one cannot eat money." -Indian Proverb Even a cursory look through news headlines can be depressing. From the effects of global warming on ocean biodiversity to EPA suspension of environmental laws and weakening the Endangered Species Act, it can be difficult to see any way to make a difference ( Pandolfi, Connolly, Marshall, & Cohen 2011, Beitsch 2020, Friedman 2019) . Throughout Earth's history, geologists and paleontologists have identified five distinct mass extinction events, where more than 50% of the Earth's biodiversity went extinct (Hodges 2016). According to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services 2019 report , there is an estimated 8 million plant and animal species on Earth. The current extinction rate is t ens to hundreds of times higher than the average over the past 10 million years, a rate that continues to increase. Up to 1 million species are threatened with extinction, many within the next few decades. These reports have led experts to dub our current era the sixth extinction event. There are many factors that play into the rapid decrease of biodiversity, but the common theme between all of these factors is human interference . Key areas of concern include increased pollution, over-fishing, habitat destruction, and global warming . While the situation is bleak, there are many people that want to do their part to make a difference (Kolbert 2015). A study conducted by Kerschke-Risch (2015) found that climate protection is the second biggest motivator for people to transition to a vegan lifestyle. Meat-based meals have an average environmental impact of 6622 Ecopoints per meals compared to a vegetarian meal, which has an average of 2085 Ecopoints ( Leuenberger, Jungbluth, & Büsser 2010). An Ecopoint is a unit of measure of environmental impact. " The Ecopoint score is a single score obtained from the combined results of a life cycle assessment against the 13 impact categories identified in the BRE Environmental Profile methodology. The Ecopoint score is also relative to the impact of an EU citizen over one year: 100 Ecopoints = the environmental impact of 1 EU citizen over one year. The more Ecopoints a unit or design gets, the worse the environmental impact of that unit (BRE Group)." There are many factors in animal agriculture that contribute to global warming, including greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and biodiversity loss (Castañé & Antón 2017). While it is true that human-created CO2 emissions play a large role in increasing greenhouse gases, they are not solely responsible for the earth's warming. There are many other greenhouse gases that trap heat that can be ten of thousands of times more powerful than CO2. Methane contributes more to global warming than all of the other greenhouse gases combined (Mohr 2005). According to the 2005 EarthSave Report, methane is 21 times more powerful as a greenhouse gas than CO2. Since the pre-industrial age, CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere have increased by 31% while methane concentrations have more than doubled. While methane is produced by a number of different industries, the leading source of methane worldwide is animal agriculture (Mohr 2005). Deforestation impact of the Amazon (2010) Forests cover 31% of the earth's surface and play an important role in mitigating climate change, fostering biodiversity, and providing food, medicine, and shelter (Bennett 2017). In 2018, the UN’s environment, development, and agriculture chiefs issued a joint statement stating "forests are a major, requisite front of action in the global fight against catastrophic climate change – thanks to their unparalleled capacity to absorb and store carbon. Stopping deforestation and restoring damaged forests could provide up to 30 percent of the climate solution ( Silva & Fao 2018)." Agriculture is the leading cause of deforestation , and within the agriculture industry, livestock is the primary cause of deforestation in the Amazon, Atlantic Forest/Gran Chaco, Cerrado, East Africa, and East Australia (Bennett 2017). " A vegan diet is probably the single biggest way to reduce your impact on planet Earth, not just greenhouse gases, but global acidification, eutrophication, land use and water use." - Joseph Poore, University of Oxford Humanity has had a grave impact on our planet's ecosystems. As the human population has increased, so has global warming, extinction rates, and ecosystem destruction (Hodges 2020). Sustainability and conservation is not just a matter of corporate responsibility. To enact a lasting change it is important for everyone to do their part to reduce their ecological impact, including reducing single-use plastics, supporting public transit, and changing diets. From a vegan meal-plan to animal-free medicines, we can make a difference. Go Animal-Free. So you're already vegan and consume animal-free medicine. Here are some more ways you can make a difference! To celebrate the 50th ANNIVERSARY OF EARTH DAY, Earth Day 2020 brings us three ways to take action ! ALWAYS CARRY A REUSABLE BAG! Although they are billed in some states/countries for their “convenience,” grocery bags are extremely inconvenient for the planet. ADD REUSABLE EATING UTENSILS TO YOUR EVERYDAY CARRY! ... the problem with eating on the run is that you can’t turn to your silverware drawer to pull out a fork and knife. Plastic utensils used for eating on the fly are an unnecessary but major source of plastic pollution. Plus, most plastic utensils can’t be recycled curbside, making it even more important to ditch the single-use plastics. VOLUNTEER FOR A CLEANUP IN YOUR COMMUNITY! Ready to take the first step in protecting our planet? There’s no better way to contribute to a cleaner and healthier community than by volunteering to tackle out-of-control waste. Join your fellow community members as you work to throw away bad waste habits. Together with partners across the globe, we’re building the world’s largest cleanup crew. Be part of the largest environmental volunteer event in history! From all of us here at Pill Clarity, thank you for doing your part to protect our planet! References Kerschke-Risch, Pamela. “Vegan Diet: Motives, Approach and Duration.” Ernaehrungs Umschau , vol. 62, no. 6, June 2015, pp. 98–103., doi:10.4455/eu.2015.016. Leuenberger, Marianne, et al. “Environmental Impact of Canteen Meals: Comparison of Vegetarian and Meat Based Recipes .” International Conference on LCA in the Agri-Food Sector, Bari, Italy , vol. 22, Sept. 2010, file:///C:/Users/icema/Downloads/leuenberger-2010-meals-LCAfood.pdf. Beitsch, Rebecca. “EPA Suspends Enforcement of Environmental Laws amid Coronavirus.” TheHill , The Hill, 30 Mar. 2020, thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/489753-epa-suspends-enforcement-of-environmental-laws-amid-coronavirus. Bennett, Lauren. “Deforestation and Climate Change.” Climate Institute , Apr. 2017, http://climate.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/deforestation-final_r1.pdf. BRE Group. “What Is an Ecopoint? How Can I Explain Ecopoints to My Colleagues?” BRE Group , www.bregroup.com/hrf_faq/what-is-an-ecopoint-how-can-i-explain-ecopoints-to-my-colleagues/. Castañé, Sílvia, and Assumpció Antón. “Assessment of the Nutritional Quality and Environmental Impact of Two Food Diets: A Mediterranean and a Vegan Diet.” Journal of Cleaner Production , vol. 167, 2017, pp. 929–937., doi:10.1016/j.jclepro.2017.04.121. Friedman, Lisa. “U.S. Significantly Weakens Endangered Species Act.” The New York Times , The New York Times, 12 Aug. 2019, www.nytimes.com/2019/08/12/climate/endangered-species-act-changes.html. Hodges, Montana. “Mountain Minds Monday.” Mountain Minds Monday. 16 Apr. 2020. “How Toothbrushes Affect the Environment: An Infographic.” MYSA , 24 May 2017, www.foreo.com/mysa/how-toothbrushes-affect-environment-infographic/. IPBES. “UN Report: Nature's Dangerous Decline 'Unprecedented'; Species Extinction Rates 'Accelerating' - United Nations Sustainable Development.” United Nations , United Nations, 6 May 2019, www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2019/05/nature-decline-unprecedented-report/. Kolbert, Elizabeth. The Sixth Extinction an Unnatural History . Picador, Henry Holt and Company, 2015. Mohr, Noam. “A New Global Warming Strategy: How Environmentalists Are Overlooking Vegetarianism as the Most Effective Tool Against Climate Change in Our Lifetimes .” An EarthSave International Report , Aug. 2005, http://animal-friends-croatia.org/data/file_2923.pdf. Pandolfi, J. M., et al. “Projecting Coral Reef Futures Under Global Warming and Ocean Acidification.” Science , vol. 333, no. 6041, 2011, pp. 418–422., doi:10.1126/science.1204794. Petter, Olivia. “Going Vegan Is 'Single Biggest Way' to Reduce Our Impact on the Planet, Study Finds.” The Independent , Independent Digital News and Media, 29 Aug. 2018, www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/veganism-environmental-impact-planet-reduced-plant-based-diet-humans-study-a8378631.html. Silva, José Graziano da, and Fao. “Forests: A Natural Solution to Climate Change, Crucial for a Sustainable Future.” UN-REDD Programme , 3 Oct. 2018, www.un-redd.org/post/2018/10/03/forests-a-natural-solution-to-climate-change-crucial-for-a-sustainable-future. Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team ! #GoAnimalFree #healthyliving #veganlifestyle #earthday2020 #makeadifference #reduceglobalwarming #protecttheplanet #captainplanet #protectbiodiversity #vegansfortheplanet #veganpharmacy #veganmedicine #medicinefortheplanet

After reviewing the concerns around animal-derived ingredients (ADI) labeling and the current policies surrounding the issue, t he AMA (2019) recommends the following: 1. Urges manufacturers to include all ingredients and components present in medical products on the product label, including both active and inactive ingredients, and denote any derived from an animal source. 2. Encourages cultural awareness regarding patient preferences associated with medical products containing active or inactive ingredients or components derived from animal sources. Read the full policy HERE. The American Medical Association (AMA) is the largest association of physicians and medical students in the United States. In addition to overseeing many other guiding medical documents, the AMA maintains the AMA Code of Medical Ethics, which outlines the standard for physician ethics. At the 2018 Interim Meeting, the Michigan Delegation introduced the measure "Information Regarding Animal Derived Medications," requesting "that our American Medical Association (AMA): (1) support efforts to improve cultural awareness pertaining to the use of animal-derived medications when considering different prescription options and (2) encourage the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to make available to the public an easily accessible database that identifies medications containing ingredients derived from animals (AMA 2019)." There are many people who avoid animal-derived ingredients (ADI). For some, their religion forbids the consumption of use of animal products. Others subscribe to a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. These people often ask after the origin of the ingredients in a specific product so that they may make an informed decision, but this information can be difficult to obtain or the answer may be vague. Many people are not aware that their products contain animal products, and may be consuming the offending ingredient without their knowledge (AMA 2019). A survey published in the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin (as cited by AMA 2019) " indicated that 84% of patients and 70% of physicians were unaware that several medications contain ADIs. Additionally, 70% of physicians thought it was important to inform patients who might object if such medications are prescribed." The FDA maintains current good manufacturing practices, but these practices do NOT include guidance around labeling for ADIs. The FDA does maintain a database with information on active and inactive ingredients for research purposes, but the database does not include the source of the ingredient. The USP-NF requires pharmaceuticals to list every active and inactive ingredients, but the manufacturer is not required to state how the ingredient was sourced. In line with the current AMA guidelines, Pill Clarity is committed to better labeling. Your medicine label should be transparent and easy-to-understand. Our Animal-Free Certification is the first pharmacist-backed program that conducts laboratory testing on products. We create resources for those that want to buy animal-free medicines, including a partnership with Scriptworks that creates custom-made prescription medicines and a curated, company-verified marketplace of over-the-counter medicine, supplements, and vitamins. If you have concerns about your medicine, please do not stop taking your medication without first speaking with your healthcare provider. References AMA. “2018 Interim Meeting: Reports of the Board of Trustees.” American Medical Association , June 2019, www.ama-assn.org/system/files/2019-06/i18-bot-reports.pdf. Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team !

Here at Pill Clarity, we often get asked "Is Tylenol vegan?", "Is there a vegan acetaminophen product?", and for our UK friends..."Is Panadol vegan?", "Is there a vegan paracetamol product?". Calling a medicine "vegan" gets tricky. The first thing to understand when exploring vegan medications is FDA regulations, which require animal testing during the research portion of new drug development. Most vegan lifestyles prohibit the exploitation of animals for any reason. By that definition, medicines cannot be vegan. However, they can be animal-free, meaning they do not contain any animal products. Is Tylenol vegan? While not all Tylenol products are animal-free, many standard Tylenol tablets contain ingredients such as magnesium stearate, glycerin, and shellac. It's important to understand that the sources of magnesium stearate and glycerin can differ; they may be derived from either animal or plant origins. Our researchers at Pill Clarity reviewed all 35 Tylenol products and found 1 to be animal-free! We have confirmed with the manufacturer that none of the ingredients in this product are sourced from animals: Tylenol Children's Dissolve Packs Is a vegan Tylenol pill an option? Although our team hasn't found an animal-free Tylenol pill, we have reviewed over 4,500 acetaminophen products and identified that Acetaminophen by Time Caps is indeed animal-free. Additionally, we offer other animal-free acetaminophen options available on our marketplace, including Genexa . For a comprehensive list of products, please reach out to us today ! Head over to our shop to check out other animal-free acetaminophen products and other verified animal-free pain relievers! Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team ! #veganacetaminophen #healthyliving #veganshop #veganmeds #Goanimalfree #animalfreeacetaminophen #pillclarity #johnsonandjohnson #tylenol #vegancure #crueltyfreeliving #vegansfortheplanet #fueledbyplants #istylenolvegan #veganpainkillers #animalfreepain

Why did you join the Pill Clarity team? I was fortunate to have an opportunity to work closely with Sachin, our CEO, as a pharmacy school student and immersed myself in managing various aspect of clinical studies with his mentorship. Post-graduation, I continued to build my clinical experience as a traditional retail pharmacist but found myself uninspired. To pursue my passion for clinical study management and dissemination of the knowledge found through them, I reached out to Sachin. I was curious to see if I could help with any current projects. Listening to his vision for Pill Clarity, I learned there was an opportunity for me to help vegan patients struggling due to limited animal-free medication information being available. Inspired and motivated to help, I jumped on the opportunity to be a part of the team. What is your favorite animal-free product? Through my research of 6000+ active and inactive ingredients, I quickly came to understand that commonly used medications are either not clearly labeled or simply not animal-free. My favorite animal-free product is Advil Dual Action with Acetaminophen . After interacting with countless patients suffering from chronic pain, I am thrilled to be able to recommend a convenient option with confidence to my vegan patients in need of pain relief. What was the most shocking thing you discovered about the pharmaceutical industry when you started working here? After much research, I was surprised to find that comprehensive information on what active and inactive ingredients were derived from was few and far between. It was also shocking to find an incredibly large number of ingredients were or are possibly sourced from animals. I am glad to be able to help provide clarity to this ambiguity. What are you doing to help pass the time while sheltering-in-place? It is a challenging time for many due to COVID-19, and I hope everyone is safe and healthy. Thankfully I am able to work from home while helping patients. To eliminate my cabin fever from sheltering, I have been spending some quality time with Rey, my Frenchie, and Dart, my crested gecko. I get my daily walks in while practicing social-distancing with Rey and Dart just hanging around. #TeamPillClarity #aboutus #pillclarity #goanimalfree #healthylifestyle Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team !

The number of medications that contain animal byproducts is staggering. It becomes an arduous task for vegans to find over-the-counter pharmaceuticals and supplements that are completely animal-free, leading them to focus on supplements and diets to address symptoms. Here at Pill Clarity, we are regularly asked about animal-free pain medications, specifically asking if ibuprofen is vegan. The first thing to understand when exploring vegan medications is FDA regulations, which require animal testing during the research portion of new drug development. Most vegan lifestyles prohibit the exploitation of animals for any reason. By that definition, medicines cannot be vegan. However, they can be animal-free, meaning they do not contain any animal products. Ibuprofen (brand names include: Advil, Genpril, IBU, Midol IB, Motrin IB, Proprinal) in and of itself is animal-free. However, companies use a variety of animal products in capsules, fillers, and pharmaceutical ink. The Pill Clarity team took it upon ourselves to find a solution! We filtered through 1,387 possible products and found one ibuprofen product verified to be animal-free: Timely Ibuprofen 200mg Tablets. Is Advil vegan? Well, not every Advil product is genuinely animal-free, many of them like the standard Advil tablets have a film coating made of pharmaceutical glaze containing shellac and contain binding agents like beeswax or white wax. The Advil product we can confirm to be animal-free is the Advil Dual Action Caplets . There are effective, alternative pain relief products that are also animal-free. The products linked below are verified to not contain any animal-derived ingredients but are not yet certified by Pill Clarity. Leave us a comment below if you would like these products to be certified! Advil Dual Action with Acetaminophen Aleve Tablets Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Genexa Acetaminophen 500mg Extra Strength Pain Reliever & Fever Reducer Visit our Pain Relief Shop Page to learn more about Advil ibuprofen tablets and other animal-free pain relief products. Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team ! #goanimalfree #healthylifestyle #veganmedicine #animalfreemedicine #veganibuprofen #veganpainkillers #isadvilvegan #animalfreeibuprofen #animalfreepainkillers #pillclarity #kindermeds #medications #plantbasedlife #study #vegansupplements #fueledbyplants #vegancure #crueltyfreeliving #vegannews #ditchdairy #dairyisscary #vegansfortheplanet

“How do you think humans got so cruel?” I asked Makili. He gazed at the ocean, then back at Turner and me. “We forgot,” he said, letting the words linger. “We forgot our responsibility. And we forgot that we are as equal as any living thing within the chain. There’s no hierarchy in this. Nah. We are part of the same family: living things." -Susan Casey, Voices in the Ocean Animal testing and animal research is a complicated, unavoidable part of pharmaceutical research. The FDA mandates animal testing for many "drugs, vaccines and other biologics, and medical devices, mainly to determine the safety of the medical product." Luckily, the FDA supports efforts to reduce animal testing. The organization researches and continues to develop methods to replace animal testing, however there are still products and devices that require bio compatibility testing on animals. Historically, research animals were euthanized at the terminus of their research careers, regardless if the animals were healthy. In November 2019 , the FDA updated their policies to encourage re-homing the animals. In the years leading up to the policy change, several states encouraged adoption instead of euthanasia. The National Institutes of Health and the Department of Veteran Affairs both recently enacted similar policy changes. In 2019, U.S. Senator Susan Collins introduced Animal Freedom from Testing, Experiments and Research (AFTER) Act, which would put a nationwide policy in place regarding animal adoptions after a life in the lab. Collins stated that , "There is no reason why regulated research animals that are suitable for adoption or retirement should be killed by our federal agencies.... I’m pleased that the FDA has joined the NIH and VA in enacting a lab animal retirement policy.” Julie Germany , executive director of the White Coat Waste Project, adopted a dog named Violet from a government-funded lab. At first, Violet was extremely anxious, having grown up in a lab and never seen the outdoors, Germany tells The Dodo ’s Ari n Greenwood. Violet hadn’t been house trained and needed a diaper, and was taught by the family cat, Bert, how to climb the stairs. But by 2017, Violet became well-adjusted to life in a loving home." Are you interested in opening your home to a former research animal in need of a loving family? Check out these resources! Bayer Adoption Program : Bayer is a research organization that partners with a variety of adoption agencies to rehome their animals. New Life Animal Sanctuary : Based in Elsinore, CA, this sanctuary brings in former research animals to live at their sanctuary. The organization is working towards caring for former research primates. In their first month, New Life rescued over 300 rodents from a closing psychology program at Calif. State University-Northridge an d adopted all of them, plus the offspring of pregnant animals, to loving homes. The Beagle Freedom Project : Beagles' calm disposition makes it ideal both as a pet and a laboratory research subject. This organization is dedicated towards adopting out former research beagles into loving homes. The organization informs adopters that laboratory dogs can be difficult — they aren’t used to loving humans and, in most cases, have never been outdoors. On the other hand, their transformation s and reaction to their new homes w ill make up for any challenges. Kindness Ranch : This animal shelter rehabilitates and adopts out former research animals, including dogs, cats, sheep, horses, and pigs. Those who are unable to be adopted out due to sickness or injury are able to live the rest of their days in comfort and safety of Kindness Ranch. Animals brought into the ranch are given space, care, and opportunities to learn how to properly socialize before they are adopted into their forever homes. Have you adopted a pet before? Tell us about it in the comments below! Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team ! #animals #goanimalfree #adoptanimals #foster #animalexperiment #labanimals #animalrights #pets #adoptapet #furbaby #animalrescue #petrescue #labtesting #pet #dogs #doggo #cats #kitty #bubbies #rabbits #horses #pigs #rats #euthanize

Vegan T-Rex?! You've all seen the Jurassic Park films. It's hard to forget the scene of the giant Tyrannosaurus rex attacking a jeep as a pair of terrified kids scream. However, modern paleontological research paint a very different picture of the tyrant lizard. Dr. Aydan Sattler from the Xavier Institute released a study in April's edition of Xavier Science Today suggesting that the Tyrannosaurus rex was not a carnivore, but rather had a plant-based diet! Sattler's team recently unearthed a mostly-complete skeleton of a small pack of T-rex's in what can only be described as a garden. One of the T-rex skeletons even held a stone slab attached to a small tree trunk with the words chiseled "#GoAnimalFree". Scientists are now debating whether or not this is the earliest use of a hashtag. HAPPY APRIL FOOL'S DAY! The above article is, of course, a complete work of fiction. But here are some actual interesting facts about the great Tyrannosaurus rex ! T-rex had feathers! Trace fossil remains on juvenile T-rex skeletons suggest that young Rex was born with soft, downy feathers. The animal would shed most of its down as it grew into adulthood, retaining and developing adult feathers that stretched along its head and tail. T-rex likely hunted in packs! In 2014, Canadian researchers released the first evidence that suggested that T-rex hunted in small packs. The team unearthed a set of T-rex track ways in British Columbia, left by three animals travelling in the same direction at the same time. Many track ways were discovered at the site, all moving in different directions, which suggests that the T-rex pack were not forced to travel in the same direction due to geographical constraints. Richard McCrea of the Peace Region Palaeontology Research Centre commented, "When you find three track ways together, going in same direction, it's not necessarily good evidence for gregarious behaviour. They could be walking along a shore. But if all the other animals are moving in different directions, it means there is no geographical constraint, and it strengthens the case." T-rex didn't roar! Audiences were blown away as an adult T-rex came roaring to life on the silver screen! However, research released in 2017 suggests something far more sinister. Naturalist Chris Packham partnered with researchers at the University of Texas, led by Professor Julie Clarke, tested the theory that dinosaurs would have sounded more similar to birds and reptiles rather than mammal predators. The ream combined the call of a Eurasian bittern with a Chinese crocodile growl, and then scaled it up to T-rex’s estimated size (about 12 meters or 40 feet long). The result was a chilling ominous rumble. SEE CLIP HERE "The researchers describe it as a low rhythmic thud, similar to the sounds you often get in horror movie music, because low-frequency noise, which is often felt as well as heard, is more frightening, or even potentially paralyzing, than high-frequency noise. Studying T-rex's inner ear showed that it was also particularly sensitive to low-frequency sounds, which can travel through the ground, suggesting that this may have been how the creatures "talked" to each other over long distances, much like elephants and whales do." Want to learn more about T-Rex? The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs: A New History of Their Lost World by Steve Brusatte [book] T. Rex and the Crater of Doom by Walter Alvarez [book] Tyrannosaurus rex , National Geographic webpage Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team ! #aprilfools #aprilfools2020 #tyranosaurusrex #trex #dinosaurs #plantbased #carnivore #rex #rexy #paleontology

Dani Pender- Meet the Team Why did you join the Pill Clarity team? While completing my pharmacy residency, I saw so many cases of lifestyle diseases: high cholesterol, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. We often recommended the "Mediterranean diet." After reading more, I decided to become vegetarian, and then vegan. I learned how hard it is to read labels, especially in the supplement industry! Sachin, our CEO, was a research partner of mine, so when he talked about this team, I knew I wanted to help however I could! What is your favorite animal-free product? Oooh good question. I recently finished my first half-marathon, so I tested a lot of workout fuels. Huma gels are by far my favorite...they taste great and they don't upset your stomach! I also became a huge fan of adding Nuun Sport to my water during and after longer runs. What was the most shocking thing you discovered about the pharmaceutical industry when you started working here? Listen guys, I'm a pharmacist and thought I knew a lot about inactive ingredients and labeling. I had no idea how many inactive ingredients still came from animals! And even more upsetting, it's so difficult to get a straight answer from the manufacturer. Hopefully the trend is shifting, much like it did for identifying gluten products a few years ago. What are you doing to help pass the time while sheltering-in-place? I am still very much gainfully employed and hoping everyone will #stayhome so we have enough beds in the hospital. We decided to foster a dog since we weren't traveling anytime soon! Her name is Whitney, and she will likely be a foster failure. I'm really enjoying creating random dishes based on what's left in the pantry, and I guess I've run out of excuses to not do yardwork. #TeamPillClarity #aboutus # pillclarity #goanimalfree #healthylifestyle Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team !

Over the past few days, media outlets and social media feds have been inundated with headlines about ibuprofen and the coronavirus. On March 14th, French Health Minister Olivier Véran warned that anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and cortisone, could worsen the illness. In the same informational bulletin, the French health ministry suggested patients switch to acetaminophen (Ministère des Affaires Sociales et de la Santé 2020). On March 18th, the European Medicines Agency (EMA, 2020) released a statement saying "There is currently no scientific evidence establishing a link between ibuprofen and worsening of COVID‑19. EMA is monitoring the situation closely and will review any new information that becomes available on this issue in the context of the pandemic (FRANCISCO 2020)." The World Health Organization tweeted an info-graphic on March 19th that read, "At present, based on current available information, WHO does not recommend against the use of ibuprofen. We are also consulting with physicians treating COVID-19 patients and are not aware of reports of any negative effects of ibuprofen, beyond the usual known side effects that limit its use in certain populations. WHO is not aware of published clinical or population-based data on this topic ((WHO) 2020)." Veljko Veljkov, et. al. (2020) from the University of Bologna found that drugs, such as ibuprofen, regulate the biological activity of actin protein. Actin protein is an important component during cell-to-cell spread and propagation of viral infection. Furthermore, a fundamental step during lung inflammation from infection is the rearrangement of actin filaments. Further research is being conducted, as this data suggests that ibuprofen and other, similar drugs that regulate actin proteins have the potential to be therapeutic treatment for COVID-19 (Veljko Veljkov, et. al., 2020). The EMA does not see a need for patients to discontinue their treatment. This is particularly important for patients taking ibuprofen or other NSAID medicines for chronic diseases. The EMA recommends that patients with questions or concerns speak directly with their doctor (EMA, 2020). Our pharmacists here at Pill Clarity are also available to answer any questions you may have. We will continue to publish data as it becomes available. If you are looking for an ibuprofen product with no animal-derived ingredients, see our verified product HERE . Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team ! Bibliography FRANCISCO, Estela Miranda. “EMA Gives Advice on the Use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories for COVID-19.” European Medicines Agency , 18 Mar. 2020, www.ema.europa.eu/en/news/ema-gives-advice-use-non-steroidal-anti-inflammatories-covid-19. Ministère des Affaires Sociales et de la Santé. “Actualisation Recommandations Covid 19.” DGS , 14 Mar. 2020, dgs-urgent.sante.gouv.fr/dgsurgent/inter/detailsMessageBuilder.do?id=30500&cmd=visualiserMessage. Veljkovic V, Vergara-Alert J, Segalés J and Paessler S. Use of the informational spectrum methodology for rapid biological analysis of the novel coronavirus 2019-nCoV: prediction of potential receptor, natural reservoir, tropism and therapeutic/vaccine target [version 2; peer review: awaiting peer review]. F1000Research 2020, 9 :52 ( https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.22149.2 ) (WHO), World Health Organization. “Q: Could #Ibuprofen Worsen Disease for People with #COVID19?A: Based on Currently Available Information, WHO Does Not Recommend against the Use of of Ibuprofen. Pic.twitter.com/n39DFt2amF.” Twitter , Twitter, 18 Mar. 2020, twitter.com/WHO/status/1240409217997189128.

The coronavirus (COVID-19) is a highly infectious virus that has reached every continent except for Antartica. Below are common frequently asked questions about the outbreak. How is it transmitted? Similar to colds and the flu, the coronavirus is passed person-to-person through coughing, sneezing, or close personal contact to an infected person or surfaces. What are the symptoms? Common symptoms include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms usually occur 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. How prevalent is it in the U.S.? As of March 16, there are 3,487 confirmed cases and 68 deaths. Most of these cases were exposed due to travel or close contact with an infected person or surface. What can I do to protect myself? Practice good hygiene and social distancing! Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap is not available, then use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content and wash your hands with soap at the earliest opportunity. Clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces, such as door knobs, light switches, counter tops, keyboards, toilets, and sinks. First wash the surface with detergent or soap and water and then disinfect the surface with a household cleaner. If you are sick, stay home unless you are seeking medical assistance. A sick person should wear a mask around other people, but if you are NOT sick, do not wear a mask! It is important that caregivers have masks available to them. It can be difficult to find animal-free soaps and hand sanitizers, especially in a state of emergency. Pill Clarity's experts compiled a list of animal-free soaps, hand sanitizers, and wipes HERE . If you are looking for symptomatic treatment, check out our Cough, Cold, and Allergy products. Please note that these are only a collection of animal-free products and do not replace seeking professional medical advice. Should I cancel my travel plans? The U.S. Department of State has issued travel advisories for several countries. Stay up to date and plan accordingly. The CDC posts regular coronavirus updates on their website. It is important to stay calm and act rationally. Keep yourself educated and talk to your family and friends about how to best stay safe. Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity 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? Browse animal-free products on our online marketplace ! 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 Pill Clarity team ! #coronavirusupdate #coronavirus #covid19 #staysafe #hygiene #coronavirusmask #mask #outbreak #pandemic #cdc #usa #cases #symptoms #mortality #rate #healthyliving #goanimalfree #influenza #pandemic #vegansoap #veganhandsanitizer