Beyond cyp2c19 - a new chapter in clopidogrel pharmacogenomics

Combination antiplatelet therapy with clopidogrel and aspirin is routine following coronary artery stenting. Worldwide, more than 2 million people undergo this procedure each year, making clopidogrel the second most prescribed drug in the world (over US$9 billion in sales in 2010).1 There is considerable inter-individual variability in platelet response to clopidogrel, which means that patients with a low response are at a significant risk of thromboembolic complications, such as fatal stent thrombosis.² Therefore, identifying factors that influence clopidogrel efficacy is crucial.