Factor V Leiden

Specialist

also f5 mutation, r506q

What it isA point mutation in the Factor V gene that makes the resulting clotting factor resistant to inactivation by activated protein C. Roughly 5% of people of European ancestry carry one copy; homozygotes are far rarer.

DoesTilts the coagulation balance toward clot formation by prolonging the activity of Factor Va in the clotting cascade.

GoodWild-type genotype confers normal clotting balance and no excess thrombosis risk from this gene.

BadHeterozygosity raises lifetime venous thromboembolism risk roughly 5–8 fold; homozygosity raises it roughly 50-fold. Risk compounds with estrogen-containing contraceptives, pregnancy, surgery, immobility, and smoking.

Standard

Genotype: wild-type, heterozygous, or homozygous.

Optimal

No widely-accepted optimal — the genotype is fixed; the goal is avoiding additive thrombotic triggers in carriers.

Modifiers

One-time test; genotype does not change.

How to optimize

Lifestyle: Move every hour on long flights and drives; compression stockings for travel; weight management; avoid smoking; address sleep apnea.
Diet: Adequate hydration during travel and illness; standard cardiovascular-healthy pattern.
Supplements: Avoid high-dose estrogenic supplements; omega-3 EPA+DHA, vitamin D3 if deficient.
Peptides: —
Drugs: Avoid combined oral contraceptives and oral estrogen hormone therapy; prophylactic anticoagulation around surgery and pregnancy in higher-risk carriers; consider direct oral anticoagulants after a thrombotic event.

within Genetic