EpiPen® partners with Indy Race Car driver Alex Tagliani to launch The Summer of TAG in support of Anaphylaxis Canada

TORONTO, May 1, 2013 /CNW/ - Pfizer Canada Inc., the Canadian distributor of EpiPen® (epinephrine auto-injector) is proud to partner with Indy Race Car driver Alex Tagliani in an exciting new initiative to promote food allergy awareness and safety. The Summer of TAG (Treating Allergies with Genuine Care), will support Alex's charity of choice, Anaphylaxis Canada, in their efforts to engage Canadians in a conversation about effective management of food allergies and what to do in the event of a reaction.

"We are very pleased to be partnering with Alex to raise awareness and support the educational initiatives of Anaphylaxis Canada", said Allen Van Der Wee, General Manager, Primary Care Business Unit at Pfizer Canada Inc. "This partnership provides excellent educational opportunities on how to effectively manage food allergies and be prepared for a potentially life-threatening situation."

Food allergy is one of the leading causes of potentially life-threatening anaphylactic reactions and a growing public health concern¹, especially among children. As there is no way of predicting how severe an allergic reaction may be and no known cure for anaphylaxis, avoidance of allergens is the only means of staying safe.

Alex, also known by his racing name Tag, currently competes in the IZOD IndyCar Series for Barracuda Racing. In 2011, Alex became the first and only Canadian driver to win pole position at the Indianapolis 500 in its 100 year history. The Summer of TAG, will kick off in May, Food Allergy Awareness Month in Canada, with Alex's visits to schools in Toronto (May 8) and Montreal (May 9). Alex will use these visits to talk about how he manages his food allergies and the importance of always being prepared for an anaphylactic emergency. He will also launch a design contest for his racing helmet that he will wear during the Toronto Indy in July, and will go head-to-head with a fellow race car driver in a Power of Two competition to raise funds for Anaphylaxis Canada.

"As someone with a severe food allergy to peanuts and tree nuts, I can tell you that an anaphylactic reaction is far more frightening than driving a race car at 400 km/h," said Alex Tagliani. "That's why I always carry my EpiPen® with me, wherever I go. I am happy to team up with Pfizer Canada and Anaphylaxis Canada to raise awareness. "

Anaphylaxis Canada is the national leader in advocacy and education for people with food allergies. The organization's approach to reducing the risk of anaphylactic reactions in both children and adults is focused on self-management, community engagement, understanding, and respect.

"Having Alex tell his story and share his experiences, especially with teens, provides a great way to empower them and let them know they can pursue their dreams while staying safe," said Laurie Harada, Executive Director of Anaphylaxis Canada and the mother of a teenage son with multiple food allergies. "We are excited about The Summer of TAG."

About Pfizer
Pfizer Canada Inc. is the Canadian operation of Pfizer Inc., one of the world's leading biopharmaceutical companies.  The company is one of the largest contributors to health research in Canada. Pfizer's diversified health care portfolio includes biologic and small molecule medicines and vaccines for humans, and many of the world's best-known consumer products. To learn more about Pfizer Canada, visit www.pfizer.ca.

Important Safety Information:
EpiPen (epinephrine) Auto-Injectors are indicated for the emergency treatment of anaphylactic reactions in patients who are determined by a physician to be at increased risk of anaphylaxis. EpiPen Auto-Injectors are designed as emergency supportive therapy only. After administration, patients should seek medical attention immediately or go to the emergency room. This product may not be right for you, always read and follow the label. For details on EpiPen, or educational and product safety information, please visit www.EpiPen.ca.

About Anaphylaxis Canada
Anaphylaxis Canada is a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to helping those at risk for anaphylaxis and those who care for them. The organization is committed to creating a safer world for people with life-threatening allergies through education, advocacy, and research. For more information, visit www.anaphylaxis.ca.

About Alex Tagliani
Alex Tagliani, also known by his racing name TAG, developed a passion for racing at the age of 10 when he was introduced to karting on a visit to see his paternal grandfather in Northern Italy. Currently competing in the IZOD IndyCar Series for Barracuda Racing, the Montreal native has shown his fans that he can drive anything - from Indy Car to NASCAR to a prototype. Since the beginning of his career in open wheel racing, Alex has accumulated 8 wins, 10 pole positions, 24 podiums and 35 top-10 finishes. A fierce competitor, Alex has many passions including training and nutrition and always takes precautions when managing his life-threatening allergies to peanuts and tree nuts, including carrying his EpiPen®.

SOURCE: Pfizer Canada Inc.