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Understanding DNA Testing and Toxicology.

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Prince Agyirey-Kwakye

Prince Agyirey-Kwakye

Chief Scientific Officer

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CYP2C19 Testing for Clopidogrel

CYP2C19 Testing for Clopidogrel

Published 19/01/2026

Clopidogrel remains one of the most widely used antiplatelet medicines in UK practice. But the UK is now moving more decisively toward genotype-guided antiplatelet decision-making. NICE’s 2024 diagnostics guidance (DG59) was a key first step, recommending CYP2C19 pharmacogenetic testing to determine whether clopidogrel is suitable for people who have just had an ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA).

Are Drug–Drug Interactions Common?

Are Drug–Drug Interactions Common?

Published 06/01/2026

If you are taking more than one medication, for example something for mental health, something for pain, and something for your stomach or heart, you are not alone. This is incredibly common, especially as we get older or manage more than one condition. The medical term for this is polypharmacy, which simply means taking multiple medications at the same time. Polypharmacy usually refers to taking five or more medications, but even with just two medications, interactions can occur. The risk increases as more drugs are added.
Navigating SSRIs When You Are Also Taking ADHD Medication

Navigating SSRIs When You Are Also Taking ADHD Medication

Published 03/11/2025

Many adults with ADHD take more than one medication. One of the most common combinations is an ADHD medicine taken together with an SSRI antidepressant. This may look complicated from the outside, but it is extremely common. Anxiety, low mood and emotional strain often develop during the years when ADHD is present but not yet recognised. Because of this, SSRIs such as sertraline, fluoxetine or citalopram are often started before ADHD medication is introduced.

Statins Not Working? Your DNA Might Have the Answer

Statins Not Working? Your DNA Might Have the Answer

Published 25/09/2025

If you’re taking a statin like simvastatin, atorvastatin, or rosuvastatin and it’s not working as expected, you’re not alone. You might even be dealing with side effects like muscle aches, tiredness, or poor sleep. It’s frustrating — especially if your doctor increases your dose and nothing improves.

How Clinicians Can Secure NHS Funding for Pharmacogenetic Testing

How Clinicians Can Secure NHS Funding for Pharmacogenetic Testing

Published 25/09/2025

Pharmacogenetic testing is gaining traction across the NHS. While not yet routine in all areas, there are established routes to secure funding when there is a clear clinical need — particularly in complex mental health cases. For prescribers dealing with non-responders, adverse effects, or polypharmacy, pharmacogenomics can be transformative. The key is knowing how to access pharmacogenetic testing on the NHS.
How Can I Get Pharmacogenetic Testing on the NHS?

How Can I Get Pharmacogenetic Testing on the NHS?

Published 25/09/2025

If you’ve tried different medications without success, or experienced side effects that stop you from feeling better, you may have wondered: “Why isn’t my treatment working for me?” Pharmacogenetic testing (PGx) can help. By looking at your DNA, it shows how your body processes medications—giving doctors clues about which drugs may work best, and which may cause problems. But one big question remains: how can I get pharmacogenetic testing on the NHS?
Prescribing Sertraline: Why Pharmacogenomics Matters

Prescribing Sertraline: Why Pharmacogenomics Matters

Published 02/09/2025

Sertraline is not just another SSRI. While it works by increasing serotonin levels like others in its class, it also has a mild effect on dopamine. This dual action can make it especially useful in depression marked by low energy, poor motivation, or emotional flatness. On top of that, sertraline has a favourable cardiovascular profile and fewer drug–drug interactions compared to some of its peers, such as citalopram.
PGx and the NHS 10 Year Plan

PGx and the NHS 10 Year Plan

Published 27/08/2025

The NHS Fit for the Future: 10-Year Health Plan recognises this gap and sets out an ambition to embed pharmacogenetic testing into mainstream care. At AttoDiagnostics, we’re ready to help turn that ambition into a daily reality.
Why Pharmacogenomic Testing Matters When Prescribing Antidepressants

Why Pharmacogenomic Testing Matters When Prescribing Antidepressants

Published 15/08/2025

Whether you’re prescribing citalopram, sertraline, or an older tricyclic antidepressant like amitriptyline, individual variations in drug metabolism can profoundly influence both efficacy and safety. Two of the most important enzymes involved—CYP2D6 and CYP2C19—are highly polymorphic, meaning a patient's genetic makeup can lead them to be poor, intermediate, normal, or ultra-rapid metabolisers.