Final answer:
Warfarin (Coumadin) is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clots in patients with a history of heart attacks or strokes. Pharmacogenomics can aid in personalizing Warfarin therapy to decrease the risk of overdose by considering genetic factors that influence the patient's response to the drug.
Step-by-step explanation:
Warfarin (Coumadin) is categorized as an anticoagulant medication. Anticoagulants are substances that help prevent the formation of blood clots by opposing coagulation. They play a critical role in limiting the coagulation process to the region of injury and restoring a normal, clot-free condition of blood. For example, Warfarin is commonly prescribed to patients who have suffered from a heart attack or stroke to prevent further clotting events. However, monitoring and dosage adjustment are crucial due to the risk of overdose, which can be influenced by individual differences in liver function.
To reduce the risk of overdose, pharmacogenomics can be utilized to tailor medication regimens based on the genetic makeup of the patient, potentially improving the safety and efficacy of Warfarin therapy. Pharmacogenomics may identify genetic variations that affect a patient's response to Warfarin, allowing for personalized dosage adjustments that minimize the risk of complications.