Pharmacogenetic test (warfarin, clopidogrel)
pharmacogenomic test · drug-gene test · warfarin sensitivity test · clopidogrel gene test · CYP2C19 test
This test shows how your genes affect the way some medicines work. It helps your doctor choose the medicine and the dose.
Before starting or when adjusting blood thinners and some other medicines, or if a medicine does not help or causes side effects.
⏱ Duration: the sample usually takes 5 minutes; results usually come in a few days or 1 to 2 weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. You usually do not need to fast. If a cheek swab is taken, do not eat, drink, or smoke for 30 minutes before.
- Medicines. Do not stop anything on your own. Medicines usually do not affect this test.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your ID
- A list of your medicines
How it goes
- The nurse takes blood from a vein into one tube
- Sometimes a cotton swab is rubbed inside your cheek instead
- If blood is taken, a cotton pad is pressed on the spot
- The sample is labeled and sent to the lab
What you'll feel
- A quick prick, or just a swab touching your cheek
- The test is done once. It does not need to be repeated
Afterwards
- Results usually come in a few days or 1 to 2 weeks
- Take the result to your doctor. They will decide whether to change the medicine or the dose
- Keep the report. It is useful for life
- Do not change your doses on your own based on the result
Common questions
Does this test replace blood clotting tests?
No. The gene test helps choose a starting dose, but you still need clotting checks.
How many times do I need it?
Once. Your genes do not change, so the result is good for life.