A recent global study conducted by the Monell Chemical Senses Center has shed light on the bitterness intensity of various medicines and bitter modifiers among adults of different ancestries. The study, published in Chemical Senses, included 338 participants of European descent and recent immigrants from Asia, South Asia, and Africa. The researchers found that there were significant differences in bitterness ratings based on ancestry for certain drugs and modifiers, as well as genetic variants that influenced individual reactions to bitter tastes.
The tasting panel evaluated the bitterness of five medicines, including drugs for HIV, tuberculosis, schistosomiasis, malaria, and hyperthyroidism. Additionally, two bitter modifiers, sucralose, and 6-methylflavone, were tested to see how they affected the taste of the bitter medicines. The results revealed that there were substantial variations in bitterness ratings across all ancestry groups. Interestingly, some individuals found the medicines to be extremely bitter, while others perceived them as relatively mild.
Notably, the study uncovered that 40% of the medicines exhibited differences in bitterness based on ancestry. For instance, people of Asian descent found PROP to be more bitter compared to other ancestries, while individuals of European ancestry perceived amodiaquine as more bitter than those of African descent. These findings have important implications for the formulation of medicines, as they suggest that certain populations may be more sensitive to bitter tastes than others.
The researchers also highlighted the importance of addressing the issue of bitter-tasting medicines, as poor palatability can lead to non-adherence to treatment regimens. This is particularly concerning in low-resource settings where every dose of medicine is crucial. By understanding the differences in taste perceptions among individuals and groups, the researchers hope to develop strategies to improve the taste of medicines for everyone, ensuring that all patients can easily take their prescribed medications.
In conclusion, the study conducted by the Monell Chemical Senses Center provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between taste perception, ancestry, and drug palatability. By identifying the factors that influence individuals’ reactions to bitter tastes, researchers can work towards making medicines more tolerable and accessible to all patients.
