Some Ethnic Groups More Susceptible to Adverse Drug Reactions

[Angel]

Some ethnic groups may be more susceptible to adverse drug reactions (ADRs) than other groups, reveals a study from City Hospital in Birmingham, England.

Researchers cite a number of factors, including genetic makeup, age, sex and even diet, that can alter a patient's vulnerability to ADRs. However, it has is not been known to what extent susceptibility to ADRs might depend on ethnic group as a result of genetic or cultural factors.

Researchers searched the scientific literature and identified 24 studies that included data for adverse reactions to cardiovascular drugs for at least two ethnic groups. The differences in study quality were assessed to identify and minimize bias.

They found the risk of angioedema (swelling) with blood pressure-lowering drugs was three-times greater in black patients than non-black patients. The risk of cough was nearly three-times higher in Asian patients compared with white patients.

Researchers found that for clot-busting therapy, the risk of bleeding increased 1.5 per cent in black compared with non-black patients.

The authors note some ethnic groups may be more susceptible to adverse reactions during treatment with the cardiovascular drugs. These findings may help doctors present more accurate and relevant data to their patients when providing cardiovascular therapy. They add, however, differences in the study quality and inconsistent reporting of harm from ADRs, mean that these results should be interpreted cautiously.

In conclusion, researchers say studies must report both adverse reactions and racial and ethnic classifications more fully if we are to discover how they are linked.