These drugs may also alter epigenetic homeostasis by direct or indirect mechanisms. This may alter expression of receptors, signaling molecules and other proteins. With chronic exposure cells adapt and this can lead to a long term alteration of an epigenetic network.

Epigenetic effects of pharmaceuticals may be involved in the etiology of many disorders that have a profound effect on our health.

Did you know that hydralazine (a vasodilator) used to treat hypertension and procainamide (an antiarrythmic sodium channel blocker) inhibit DNA methyltransferase.

Valproic acid (valproate), an anti epileptic and mood stabilizing drug targets demethylaiton activity to demethylate DNA. It affects our liver function and has an affect on genes associated with lipid, fatty acids and steroid metabolism. It affects the glial cells in the brain and may cause memory loss and depression.

Drugs might also affect the synthesis and metabolism of methyl groups in the cell resulting in a decrease in SAMe levels. This will then have a knock on effect and cause a decrease in all methyltransferase activity.

Many of our patients come to us on multiple pharmaceutical drugs. We need to be aware of the consequences of these drugs and ensure that key nutrients are supported and pathways affected monitored.