The Burden of Heart Disease
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States. Millions rely on medications such as statins, beta-blockers, anticoagulants, and ACE inhibitors to manage cholesterol, high blood pressure, and clotting disorders. While these drugs save lives, they do not work the same way for everyone. Some patients respond well, others face severe side effects, and some gain little benefit at all.
This inconsistency is not simply bad luck. It often comes down to genetics. At DLW, we use pharmacogenomic testing to make heart treatments safer and more effective.
Why Standard Prescribing Falls Short
- Statins may trigger muscle pain in genetically sensitive patients.
- Warfarin dosing can vary dramatically depending on genetic factors. Incorrect dosing increases bleeding risks.
- Beta-blocker effectiveness differs based on genetic variations in receptor response.
- Some patients are slow metabolizers, causing drug accumulation and dangerous side effects.
These challenges explain why cardiovascular medications are among the most common causes of hospital admissions for adverse drug reactions.
DLW’s Cardiovascular PGx Panel
At DLW’s CLIA-certified lab, our cardiovascular PGx panel helps physicians:
- Identify which patients are at risk of adverse reactions.
- Optimize anticoagulant dosing to avoid both clotting and bleeding.
- Match patients to the most effective cholesterol-lowering therapies.
- Provide guidance on beta-blocker and hypertension drug response.
Benefits for Patients
- Safer treatments with fewer emergency visits.
- Faster stabilization of blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Lower risk of life-threatening complications such as stroke or heart attack.
- A care plan based on precision, not trial and error.
Why DLW is Trusted in Heart Health
- Actionable reports with dosing guidance for anticoagulants.
- Broad drug coverage including warfarin, clopidogrel, statins, and beta-blockers.
- Mobile Lab Xpress makes testing accessible even to older patients who cannot travel easily.
- Fast results ensure doctors adjust therapy without delay.
Patient Story
A 62-year-old man in Huntsville was placed on warfarin after a heart valve replacement. Despite careful monitoring, his INR levels fluctuated dangerously. After PGx testing through DLW, results showed he required a lower dose due to his genetic profile. His treatment stabilized, reducing his risk of bleeding and improving his quality of life.
FAQs
Who benefits most from cardiovascular PGx testing?
Patients starting blood thinners, those with history of statin intolerance, or anyone with multiple heart medications.
Is the test a one-time process?
Yes, results last a lifetime.
Does it delay urgent care?
No, results are available in days, guiding ongoing therapy.
Closing Thought
Heart health should never rely on trial and error. With pharmacogenomics, treatment becomes safer, faster, and more effective. At DLW, we bring this precision directly to patients across Alabama.
