Pharmacogenomics and cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease is one of the most prevalent disease states in the U.S. and contributes substantially to overall morbidity and mortality. The ability to effectively optimize the treatment of cardiovascular disease has a significant impact on overall disease prevention and treatment. This chapter discusses the relationship between genetic variations and their impact on medications used for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders. Key medications that are susceptible to genetic variation have been identified. The chapter describes the mechanisms by which genetic variation may contribute to altered medication concentrations or effects and briefly reviews the place in therapy for the cardiovascular medications. In addition, this chapter reviews current clinical literature to determine the overall impact these variations may have on clinical outcomes.