The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 269 No 7217 p433
28 September 2002

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British Pharmaceutical Conference 2002 News

Genetic test before starting warfarin?

Use of a genetic test before starting warfarin therapy could increase its safety profile, according to new research presented at the Conference. Dr Dita Engova, Barts and the London NHS Trust, explained that some people are born with a genetic mutation of the CYP2C9 enzyme, which is involved in the metabolism of the potent S-isomer of warfarin. The researchers looked at 167 patients taking warfarin and discovered that people with the variant CYP2C9 have increased plasma levels of the S-isomer of warfarin and therefore require a lower dose. The researchers say that although routine genotyping is too expensive, it might be justifiable in groups of patients who are at particular risk, such as the elderly.