40% lack drug decomposition enzyme

Four in 10 Koreans have a generic predisposition that is poor in decomposing specific drugs, such as antiulerants, antifungal and antiplatelet agents, according to the Korea Food and Drug Administration.

People who have reduced functioning of their CYP2C19 liver enzyme cannot effectively convert an antiplatelet agent to its active form. As a result, the drug may be less effective in altering...