Why are people concerned about phthalates now?
Public awareness about phthalates in plastics, toys, foods and personal care products is rising. Virtually everyone has some level of phthalates in their bodies. However, there is concern that some, but not all, phthalates might be harmful to people’s health. back to top Why is this important to someone with CF? Some medications on the market, including some pancreatic enzymes, contain phthalates. Pancreatic enzymes help people with CF digest their food. Inside each enzyme capsule are many small “beads” that contain digestive enzymes. Each bead is covered with a special “enteric-coating.” This coating allows the beads to dissolve in the small intestine. The digestive enzymes are then released in the small intestine to help digest food. It is the “enteric-coating” on the beads that may contain phthalates. To learn more, please talk with your CF care center. back to top How do I find out if my or my child’s enzymes have phthalates? Talk with your CF care center about which pancreatic enz
