Question

Coumadin is a drug given to prevent excessive blood clotting in stroke or heart attack patients. One potential hazard is an overdose depending on liver function. How might pharmacogenomics assist these patients in the future?

a) By identifying genetic variations affecting drug metabolism
b) By recommending higher drug doses for better efficacy
c) By suggesting alternative medications with fewer side effects
d) By predicting the exact timing of blood clot formation

Answer 1

Pharmacogenomics can assist patients taking Coumadin by identifying genetic variations affecting drug metabolism, helping doctors choose the best drug and most effective dose based on the patient's genotype.

Step-by-step explanation:

Pharmacogenomics involves evaluating the effectiveness and safety of drugs based on an individual's genomic sequence. By identifying genetic variations affecting drug metabolism, pharmacogenomics can assist patients taking Coumadin by helping doctors choose the best drug and most effective dose based on the patient's genotype. This personalized approach improves patient safety, eliminates trial-and-error in medication selection, and saves both time and money.