Anti-clotting Drugs Still Important Treatments, Says British Heart Foundation

Main Category: Heart Disease
Also Included In: Cardiovascular / Cardiology
Article Date: 28 Dec 2008 - 1:00 PST

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In response to research published by The Lancet online (1) which suggests that Clopidogrel - an anti-clotting drug given used in the treatment of heart attacks - is less effective on people under 45 years of age with a particular genetic variation, Professor Peter Weissberg, Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation said:

"Clopidogrel is an effective drug with proven benefits for patients with coronary heart disease. But this study suggests that there may be some young heart attack victims whose genetic make up renders them somewhat resistant to its beneficial anti-clotting effects."

"However, most people taking Clopidogrel should not be concerned and should certainly not stop taking the drug.

"Further research is needed to confirm the findings of this study and to establish how best to improve anti-clotting treatment in those few patients in whom it could be a problem. There are newer anti-clotting drugs entering the market that might provide a solution.

"This is an early example of where a genetic test may be able to determine which drug is best suited for a particular individual."

(1) Statement issued in response to Cytochrome P450 2C19 polymorphism in young patients treated with clopidogrel after myocardial infarction: a cohort study by Dr Gilles Montalescot et al. Published by The Lancet online December 23, 2008. DOI:10.1016/S0140-6736(08)61845-0

- The BHF is the nation's heart charity, dedicated to saving lives through pioneering research, patient care, campaigning for change and by providing vital information. But we urgently need help. We rely on donations of time and money to continue our life-saving work. Because together we can beat heart disease.

British Heart Foundation
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180 Hampstead Road London, NW1 7AW
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http://www.bhf.org.uk