Summary
We performed a randomised pilot trial of PerMIT, a novel decision support tool for
genotype-based warfarin initiation and maintenance dosing, to assess its efficacy
for improving warfarin management. We prospectively studied 26 subjects to compare
PerMIT-guided management with routine anticoagulation service management. CYP2C9 and VKORC1 genotype results for 13 subjects randomly assigned to the PerMIT arm were recorded
within 24 hours of enrolment. To aid in INR interpretation, PerMIT calculates estimated
loading and maintenance doses based on a patient’s genetic and clinical characteristics
and displays calculated S-warfarin plasma concentrations based on planned or administered
dosages. In comparison to control subjects, patients in the PerMIT study arm demonstrated
a 3.6-day decrease in the time to reach a stabilised INR within the target therapeutic
range (4.7 vs. 8.3 days, p = 0.015); a 12.8% increase in time spent within the therapeutic
interval over the first 25 days of therapy (64.3% vs. 55.3%, p = 0.180); and a 32.9%
decrease in the frequency of warfarin dose adjustments per INR measurement (38.3%
vs. 57.1%, p = 0.007). Serial measurements of plasma S-warfarin concentrations were
also obtained to prospectively evaluate the accuracy of the pharmacokinetic model
during induction therapy. The PerMIT S-warfarin plasma concentration model estimated
62.8% of concentrations within 0.15 mg/l. These pilot data suggest that the PerMIT
method and its incorporation of genotype/phenotype information may help practitioners
increase the safety, efficacy, and efficiency of warfarin therapeutic management.
Clinical Trials Registration identifier: NCT00993200
Keywords
Anticoagulation - warfarin - pharmacogenetics - algorithm - clinical trial