People with celiac disease are intolerant to gluten, which is present in many cereals.

To counteract these effects, doctors prescribe a gluten-free diet.

In Lazio, it is possible to buy specific food products with the vouchers issued by the Region.

If you suffer from celiac disease, or assist a celiac person, you can request the celiac code from your local health authority.

Every month you will automatically receive vouchers on your Health Card. 

The amount varies based on the age and gender of the assisted person.

With the celiac code and the associated health card, you can purchase specific food products for celiacs at

• pharmacies

• parapharmacies

• specialized stores 

• authorized supermarkets

Vouchers cannot be accumulated for subsequent months, but you can only spend them for the current month.

At the time of payment at the checkout, you will need to:

• insert the health card into the reader

• type in the celiac code

To purchase gluten-free products with vouchers, you must use the Health Card associated with the celiac code.

This can be with a chip or without a chip, but remember:

• if you have a new card with a chip, the celiac code is automatically associated

• if the associated card has expired and the new card is without a chip, do not dispose of the old one, but continue to use it for purchases

• if you no longer have the old card, you can contact the ASL offices

• Until December 31, 2030, you can use your old health card, even if expired or about to expire. 

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes numerous gastrointestinal disturbances, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

People genetically predisposed to celiac disease are unable to properly absorb nutrients due to gluten present in certain foods. 

Celiac disease manifests as inflammation in the small intestine that compromises the person's health.

Currently, there is no cure, but a gluten-free diet protects you from symptoms and improves intestinal health.

Those suffering from celiac disease may notice it even at an older age, as it can manifest and develop at any age.

If you suspect you have celiac disease, or you are caring for a minor who may have it, the first step is to consult your doctor or pediatrician.

Remember that

The threshold limit of gluten that a celiac person can consume due to unintentional contamination is 10 mg per day. Below this threshold, there is generally no effect on the body. 

For this reason, celiac individuals can safely take all medications available on the market, including those containing wheat starch.

Exceptions are cases of individual hypersensitivity, which are very rare and must be evaluated by a doctor on a case-by-case basis.

Source: Ministry of Health (note N. F.800.AIC/7558 of February 5, 2004) and the Italian Medicines Agency (note "Clarifications regarding repealed regulations" of August 29, 2006)