UPMC using genetic testing as potential guide on medication

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) is offering voluntary genetic testing to help determine whether some people with heart problems have a certain genetic mutation. Studies show that clopidogrel (Plavix—Bristol-Myers) is ineffective in 30% of patients and linked to complications in about 10%. However, a simple blood test can determine whether an individual has a genetic variant that will prevent the drug from working. In the first year of the program, UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, located in Oakland, PA, expects to test more than 700 patients undergoing heart catheterization.