Pharmacogenetic Testing - CAM 218

Description
Pharmacogenetics aims to study the influence of genetic variation on drug response and drug toxicity, which allows physicians to select a more targeted therapeutic strategy to suit each patient’s genetic profile (Aka et al., 2017). Genetic variations in human proteins, such as, cytochrome P450 enzymes, Thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT), dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), and cell surface proteins, highlights the clinical importance of pharmacogenetic testing. 

Cytochrome (CYP) P450 enzymes are a class of enzymes essential in the synthesis and breakdown metabolism of various molecules and chemicals. Found primarily in the liver, these enzymes are also essential for the metabolism of many medications. CYP P450 enzymes, approximately 58 CYP human genes, are essential to produce many biochemical building blocks, such as cholesterol, fatty acids, and bile acids. Additional cytochrome P450 are involved in the metabolism of drugs, carcinogens, and internal substances, such as toxins formed within cells. Mutations in CYP P450 genes can result in the inability to properly metabolize medications and other substances, leading to increased levels of toxic substances in the body (Bains, 2013; Tantisira & Weiss, 2023).

Thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) is an enzyme that methylates azathioprine, mercaptopurine and thioguanine into active thioguanine nucleotide metabolites. Azathioprine and mercaptopurine are used for treatment of nonmalignant immunologic disorders; mercaptopurine is used for treatment of lymphoid malignancies; and thioguanine is used for treatment of myeloid leukemias (Relling et al., 2013). 

Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD), encoded by the gene DPYD, is a rate-limiting enzyme responsible for fluoropyrimidine catabolism. The fluoropyrimidines (5-fluorouracil and capecitabine) are drugs used in the treatment of solid tumors, such as colorectal, breast, and aerodigestive tract tumors (Amstutz et al., 2018). 

A variety of cell surface proteins, such as antigen-presenting molecules and other proteins, are encoded by the human leukocyte antigen genes (HLAs). HLAs are also known as major histocompatibility complex (MHC) (Viatte, 2023).

Regulatory Status 
Diagnostic genotyping tests for certain drug metabolizing enzymes are FDA-approved. Many labs have developed specific tests that they must validate and perform in house. These laboratory-developed tests (LDTs) are regulated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) as high-complexity tests under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88). As an LDT, the U. S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved or cleared this test; however, FDA clearance or approval is not currently required for clinical use. 

Currently, there are over 14 other FDA-approved tests for the drug metabolizing enzymes that are nucleic acid-based tests including xTAG CYP2D6 Kit v3 and XTAG CYP2C19 KIT V3 (Luminex Molecular Diagnostics Inc.), Spartan RX CYP2C19 Test System (Spartan Bioscience Inc.), Verigene CYP2C19 Nucleic Acid Test (Nanosphere, Inc), INFINITI CYP2C19 Assay (AutoGenomic Inc.), Invader UGT1A1 (Third Wave Technologies Inc.), eSensor Warfarin Sensitivity Saliva Test (GenMark Diagnostics), eQ-PCR LC Warfarin Genotyping kit (TrimGen Corporation), eSensor Warfarin Sensitivity Test and XT-8 Instrument (Osmetech Molecular Diagnostics), Gentris Rapid Genotyping Assay-CYP2C9&VKORCI (ParagonDx LLC), INFINITI 2C9 & VKORC1 Multiplex Assay for Warfarin (AutoGenomics Inc.), Verigene Warfarin Metabolism Nucleic Acid Test and Verigene System (Nanosphere Inc.), TruDiagnosis System (Akonni Systems Inc.), Roche AmpliChip CYP450 microassay (Roche Molecular Systems Inc.) (FDA, 2021a). 

FDA Notes
The Office of Clinical Pharmacology within FDA includes The Genomics and Targeted Therapy Group responsible for applying pharmacogenomics and other biomarkers in drug development and clinical practice. The FDA scientists review current pharmacogenomic information and ensure that pharmacogenomic strategies are utilized appropriately in all phases of drug development (FDA, 2022).

The current list of pharmacogenomic biomarkers in drug labeling by FDA contain numerous medications that have genotypes related to metabolism dosage recommendations or warnings. These medications are involved in different therapeutic areas and the list includes the following genes and medications:

CYP1A2: Rucaparib

CYP2B6: Efavirenz, Prasugrel, Ospemifene

CYP2C19 contains 22 different medications: Clopidogrel, Prasugrel, Ticagrelor, Lansoprazole, Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, Rabeprazole, Pantoprazole, Dexlansoprazole, Flibanserin, Drospirenone and Ethinyl Estradiol, Voriconazole, Lacosamide, Brivaracetam, Clobazam, Phenytoin, Diazepam, Citalopram, Escitalopram, Doxepin, Formoterol, Carisoprodol

CYP2C9 contains 15 different medications: Prasugrel, Dronabinol, Flibanserin, Warfarin, Phenytoin, Celecoxib, Piroxicam, Flurbiprofen, Lesinurad, Avatrombopag, Erdafitinib, Ospemifene, Siponimod, Meloxicam, Rimegepant

CYP2D6 contains 70 different medications: Tramadol, Metoprolol, Nebivolol, Propafenone, Propranolol, Ondansetron, Palonosetron, Flibanserin, Eliglustat, Deutetrabenazine, Dextromethorphan and Quinidine, Galantamine, Tetrabenazine, Valbenazine, Rucaparib, Aripiprazole, Aripiprazole Lauroxil, Atomoxetine, Brexpiprazole, Cariprazine, Citalopram, Clozapine, Desvenlafaxine, Doxepin, Escitalopram, Fluoxetine, Fluvoxamine, Iloperidone, Modafinil, Paroxetine, Perphenazine, Risperidone, Venlafaxine, Vortioxetine, Arformoterol, Formoterol, Umeclidinium, Darifenacin, Mirabegron, Tolterodine, Amphetamine, Donepezil, Fesoterodine, Gefitinib, Metoclopramide, Paliperidone, Tamoxifen, Carvedilol, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine, Clomipramine, Codeine, Desipramine, Duloxetine, Imipramine, Meclizine, Metoclopramide, Nefazodone, Nortriptyline, Pimozide, Protriptyline, Quinine Sulfate, Tamsulosin, Thioridazine, Trimipramine, Pitolisant, Upadacitinib, Bupropion. 

CYP3A5: Prasugrel 

TPMT: Thioguanine, Azathioprine, Mercaptopurine, Cisplatin

NUDT15: Thioguanine, Azathioprine, Mercaptopurine

UGT1A1: Arformoterol, Belinostat, Binimetinib, Dolutegravir, Indacaterol, Irinotecan, Nilotinib, Pazopanib, Raltegravir, Sacituzumab Govitecan-hziy (FDA, 2021b). .

FDA Recommendations
The FDA package insert for Plavix (clopidogrel) carries the following “Black Box” warning: “The effectiveness of Plavix results from its antiplatelet activity which is dependent on its conversion to an active metabolite by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) system, principally CYP2C19. Plavix at recommended doses forms less of the active metabolite and so has a reduced effect on platelet activity in patients who are homozygous for nonfunctional alleles of the CYP2C19 gene, (termed “CYP2C19 poor metabolizers”). Tests are available to identify patients who are CYP2C19 poor metabolizers. Consider another platelet P2Y12 inhibitor in patients identified as CYP2C19 poor metabolizers.” (FDA, 2016)

The FDA package insert for Xenazine (tetrabenazine) indicates, “Patients who require doses of Xenazine greater than 50 mg per day should be first tested and genotyped to determine if they are poor metabolizers (PMs) or extensive metabolizers (EMs) by their ability to express the drug metabolizing enzyme, CYP2D6. The dose of XENAZINE should then be individualized accordingly to their status as PMs or EMs. (FDA, 2008)

The Coumadin (warfarin) highlights of prescription information notes that “The appropriate initial dosing of COUMADIN varies widely for different patients. Not all factors responsible for warfarin dose variability are known, and the initial dose is influenced by: Genetic factors (CYP2C9 and VKORC1 genotypes).” Although dosage suggestions based on CYP2C9 and VKORC1 genotypes are provided in the package insert, the requirement for genetic testing is not included (FDA)

The eligibility and dosing of Eliglustat is dependent on cytochrome P450 CYP2D6 genotype as eliglustat is extensively metabolized by CYP2D6. The FDA contraindicates this medication in the following patients due “to the risk of cardiac arrhythmias from prolongation of the PR, QTc, and/or QRS cardiac Intervals”:

EMs of CYP2D6

  • Taking a strong or moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor concomitantly with a strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitor
  • Moderate or severe hepatic impairment 
  • Mild hepatic impairment and taking a strong or moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor

IMs

  • Taking a strong or moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor concomitantly with a strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitor 
  • Taking a strong CYP3A inhibitor
  • Any degree of hepatic impairment 

PMs

  • Taking a strong CYP3A inhibitor 
  • Any degree of hepatic impairment (FDA, 2014)

The FDA also includes a warning for irinotecan’s interaction with UGT1A1, stating “When administered in combination with other agents, or as a single-agent, a reduction in the starting dose by at least one level of CAMPTOSAR [irinotecan] should be considered for patients known to be homozygous for the UGT1A1*28 allele” (FDA, 2021b).

Many labs have developed specific tests that they must validate and perform in house. These laboratory-developed tests (LDTs) are regulated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) as high-complexity tests under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88). LDTs are not approved or cleared by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration; however, FDA clearance or approval is not currently required for clinical use.

Policy
Application of coverage criteria is dependent upon an individual’s benefit coverage at the time of the request.

  1. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with any of the medications listed below, testing for the CYP2D6 genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY:
    1. Amphetamine
    2. Aripiprazole 
    3. Aripiprazole Lauroxil
    4. Atomoxetine
    5. Brexpiprazole
    6. Carvedilol
    7. Cevimeline
    8. Clozapine
    9. Codeine
    10. Desipramine
    11. Deutetrabenazine
    12. Eliglustat
    13. Fluvoxamine
    14. Gefitinib
    15. Iloperidone
    16. Lofexidine
    17. Meclizine
    18. Metoclopramide
    19. Nortriptyline
    20. Oliceridine
    21. Ondansetron
    22. Paroxetine
    23. Perphenazine
    24. Pimozide
    25. Pitolisant
    26. Propafenone
    27. Tamoxifen
    28. Tetrabenazine
    29. Thioridazine
    30. Tolterodine
    31. Tramadol
    32. Tropisetron
    33. Valbenazine
    34. Venlafaxine
    35. Vortioxetine
  2. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with any of the medications listed below, testing for the CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY
    1. Amitriptyline
    2. Clomipramine
    3. Doxepin
    4. Imipramine
    5. Trimipramine
  3. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy, testing for the CYP2C19 genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY:
    1. Abrocitinib
    2. Brivaracetam
    3. Citalopram
    4. Clobazam
    5. Clopidogrel
    6. Dexlansoprazole (see Note 2)
    7. Escitalopram
    8. Flibanserin
    9. Lansoprazole (see Note 2)
    10. Mavacamten
    11. Omeprazole (see Note 2)
    12. Pantoprazole (in pediatric individuals) (see Note 2)
    13. Sertraline
    14. Voriconazole (see Note 2)
  4. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with any of the medications listed below, testing for the CYP2C9 genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY:
    1. Celecoxib
    2. Dronabinol
    3. Erdafitinib
    4. Flurbiprofen
    5. Lornoxicam
    6. Meloxicam
    7. Nateglinide
    8. Piroxicam
    9. Siponimod
    10. Tenoxicam
  5. For individuals being considered for warfarin therapy, testing for the CYP2C9, CYP4F2, VKORC1, and rs12777823 genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY.
  6. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with the below medications, testing for the TPMT and NUDT15 genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY:
    1. Azathioprine
    2. Mercaptopurine
    3. Thioguanine
  7. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with the below medications, testing for the DPYD genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY
    1. Capecitabine
    2. Flucytosine
    3. Fluorouracil
    4. Tegafur
  8. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with the below medications, testing for the following human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) genotypes once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY:
    1. HLA-B*57:01 before treatment with Abacavir
    2. HLA-B*58:01 before treatment with Allopurinol
    3. HLA-B*15:02 for treatment with Oxcarbazepine
    4. HLA-B*15:02 and HLA-A*31:01 for treatment with Carbamazepine
  9. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with phenytoin/fosphenytoin, testing for the CYP2C9 and HLA-B*15:02 genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY.
  10. 10)    To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with the medications listed below, testing for the G6PD genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY:
    1. Pegloticase
    2. Primaquine
    3. Rasburicase
    4. Tafenoquine
  11. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with the below medications, testing for the following genotypes once per lifetime (see Note 1)is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY:
    1. BCHE for treatment with mivacurium or succinylcholine.
    2. CFTR for treatment with ivacaftor, elexacaftor and tezacaftor, ivacaftor and lumacaftor, or ivacaftor and tezacaftor.
    3. CYP2B6 for treatment with efavirenz.
    4. CYP3A5 for treatment with tacrolimus.
    5. IFNL3 treatment with peginterferon alfa-2a, peginterferon alfa-2b or ribavirin.
    6. NAT2 for treatment with amifampridine or amifampridine phosphate.
    7. UGT1A1 for treatment with atazanavir, belinostat, irinotecan, nilotinib, pazopanib, or sacituzumab govitecan-hziy.
  12. To aid in therapy selection and/or dosing for individuals being considered for therapy or who are in their course of therapy with belzutifan, testing for the CYP2C19 and UGT2B17 genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY.
  13. For individuals being considered for the use of halogenated volatile anesthetics or depolarizing muscle relaxants, testing for the RYR1 and CACNA1S genotype once per lifetime (see Note 1) is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY.
  14. When formulary coverage allows a pharmacotherapy that is dependent on a known genetic status (e.g., APOE testing prior to lecanemab-irmb treatment), gene specific testing is considered MEDICALLY NECESSARY
  15. To identify patients at risk of statin-induced myopathy, genetic testing for the presence of variants in the SLCO1B1 gene is considered NOT MEDICALLY NECESSARY

The following does not meet coverage criteria due to a lack of available published scientific literature confirming that the test(s) is/are required and beneficial for the diagnosis and treatment of an individual’s illness.

  1. The following pharmacogenetic testing is considered NOT MEDICALLY NECESSARY:
    1. Genotyping more than once per lifetime (see Note 1) for any medication therapy. 
    2. Genotyping of the general population.
    3. Pharmacogenetic testing (e.g., single nucleotide polymorphism [SNP] testing or SNP panel testing; single gene or multi-gene panel testing [see Note 3]) for all other situations not addressed above.

NOTES:

Note 1: Any gene may only be tested once per lifetime, regardless of the indication (an exception would be for HLA where a specific variant is tested for the medication). For example, if CYP2C19 was tested for therapy with citalopram, additional testing for CYP2C19 for treatment with clopidogrel is not needed is considered NOT MEDICALLY NECESSARY. Testing in a patient post-liver transplant is not indicated.

Note 2: Pharmacogenetic testing for proton pump inhibitor therapies (PPIs) ONLY MEETS COVERAGE CRITERIA if the patient has an active H. pylori infection.

Note 3: For 2 or more gene tests being run on the same platform, please refer to CAM 235 Laboratory Guideline Policy.

Table of Terminology 

Term

Definition

AACAP

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

AACC

American Association for Clinical Chemistry

AACF

American College of Cardiology Foundation

AAFP

American Family Physician

AAN

American Academy of Neurology

ACMG

American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics

AHA

American Heart Association

AMP

Association for Molecular Pathology

AS

Activity score

ASCPT

American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics

ASHP

American Society of Health System Pharmacists

BDI

Beck's Depression Inventory

CFTR

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator

COMT

Catechol-O-methyltransferase

CPIC

Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium

CYP

Cytochrome

DBH

Dopamine beta-hydroxylase

DPD

Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase

DPWG

Dutch Pharmacogenetics Working Group

DPYD

Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase gene

DRD1

Dopamine receptor gene

EMA

European Medicines Agency

FDA

Food and Drug Administration

G6PD

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase gene

HLAs

Human leukocyte antigen

IM

Intermediate metabolizer

ISPG

The International Society of Psychiatric Genetics

MDD

Major depressive disorder

MHC

Major histocompatibility complex

MP

Mercaptopurine

MTHFR

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase

NM

Normal metabolizer

NUDT15 

Nudix hydrolase 15

PM

Poor metabolizer

PPIs

Proton pump inhibitor therapies

RM

Rapid metabolizer

RYR1 

Ryanodine receptor 1 gene

SJS

Stevens Johnson Syndrome

SLC6A4

Solute carrier family 6 member 4

SNP

Single nucleotide polymorphism

TAU

Treatment as usual

TCAs

Tricyclic antidepressants

TEN

Toxic epidermal necrolysis

TG

Thioguanine

TPMT

Thiopurine methyltransferase

TYMS 

Thymidylate synthetase

UGT2B15

Uridine diphosphate glycosyltransferase 2 family, member 15

URM

Ultra-rapid metabolizer

Rationale
Genetic variations play a potentially large role in an individual’s response to medications. However, drug metabolism and responses are affected by many other factors, including age, sex, interactions with other drugs, and disease states (Tantisira & Weiss, 2023). Nonetheless, inherited differences in the metabolism and disposition of drugs and genetic polymorphisms in the targets of drug therapy can have a significant influence on the efficacy and toxicity of medications potentially even more so than clinical variables such as age and organ function (Kapur et al., 2014; Ting & Schug, 2016). Genetic variation can influence pharmacodynamic factors through variations affecting drug target receptors and downstream signal transduction, or pharmacokinetic factors, affecting drug metabolism and/or elimination (Tantisira & Weiss, 2023). 

The Cytochrome P450 (CYP 450) system is a group of enzymes responsible for the metabolism of many endogenous and exogenous substances, including many pharmaceutical agents. This system may serve to “activate” an inactive form of a drug, as well as inactivate and/or clear a drug from circulation. The CYP 450 enzymes are responsible for the clearance of over half of all drugs, and their activity can be affected by diet, age, and other medications. The genes encoding for the CYP 450 enzymes are highly variable with multiple alleles that confer various levels of metabolic activity for specific substrates. In some cases, alleles can be highly correlated with ethnic background. Generally, there are three categories of metabolizer; ultra-rapid metabolizers, normal metabolizers, and poor metabolizers (Tantisira & Weiss, 2023).

Due to the variations in enzyme activity conferred by allelic differences, some CYP 450 alleles are associated with an increased risk for certain conditions or adverse outcomes with certain drugs. Knowledge of the allele type may assist in the selection of a drug, or in drug dosing. Three CYP 450 enzymes are most often considered regarding clinical use for drug selection and/or dosing. Phenotypes, such as CYP2D6, CYP2C9 and CYP2C19, have been associated with the metabolism of several therapeutic drugs, and various alleles of the CYP450 gene confer differences in metabolic function. For these CYP 450 enzymes, it is thought that “poor metabolizers” could have less efficient elimination of a drug, and therefore may be at risk for side effects due to drug accumulation. For drugs that require activation by a specific CYP 450 enzyme, lower activity may yield less of the biologically active drug, which could result in lower drug efficacy. Individuals considered as “ultra-rapid metabolizers” may clear the drug more quickly than normal, and therefore may require higher doses to yield the desired therapeutic effect. Likewise, for drugs that require activation, these individuals may produce higher levels of the active drug, potentially causing unwanted side effects. Due to these differences in enzyme activity, some alleles are associated with a higher risk of adverse outcomes depending on the drug prescribed (Tantisira & Weiss, 2023).

ApoE
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) is the gene most strongly associated as a genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer disease. APOE can have three alleles: ε1, ε2, and ε4 (Sherva & Kowall, 2022). APOE ε4 is a susceptibility gene, meaning it is associated with increased risk but does not cause Alzheimer disease, and not all patients with Alzheimer disease will carry APOE ε4. In one study of 1303 patients, 55% of those homozygous for ε4 developed Alzheimer disease, while 27% of those heterozygous and 9% with no ε4 allele also developed Alzheimer disease (Myers et al., 1996). APOE, as well as CYP2D6, carrier status may have an effect on a patient’s response to drugs, “with CYP2D6-PMs [poor metabolizers], CYP2D6-Ums [ultrarapid metabalizers], and APOE-4/4 carriers acting as the worst responders” (Cacabelos et al., 2012).

In 2023, the FDA approved Lecanemab (brand name Leqembi), an amyloid beta-directed antibody, for the treatment of Alzheimer disease in adult patients (FDA, 2023). One potential side effect of Leqembi is amyloid related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), which may be more likely to occur in people who are homozygous APOE ε4 carries (Leqembi, 2024). The FDA includes that “the prescribing information states that testing for ApoE ε4 status should be performed before starting treatment with Leqembi to inform the risk of developing ARIA” (FDA, 2023).

CYP2C9
Warfarin (brand name Coumadin) is widely used as an anticoagulant in the treatment and prevention of thrombotic disorders. CYP2C9 participates in warfarin metabolism, and several CYP2C9 alleles have reduced activity, resulting in a higher circulating drug concentration. CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 are the most common variants with reduced activity. Variations in a second gene, VKORC1, also can impact warfarin’s effectiveness. This gene codes for the enzyme that is the target for warfarin. Genotypes resulting in reduced metabolism may need a higher dose to achieve the desired efficacy (Tantisira & Weiss, 2023).

CYP2C19
Clopidogrel (brand name Plavix) is used to inhibit platelet aggregation and is given as a pro-drug that is metabolized to its active form by CYP2C19. Alleles CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3 are associated with reduced metabolism of clopidogrel. Individuals with the “poor metabolizer” alleles may not benefit from clopidogrel treatment at standard doses (Tantry et al., 2021). Tuteja et al. (2020) studied CYP2C19 genotyping to guide antiplatelet therapy. A total of 504 participants contributed to this study, with only 249 participants genotyped. The authors noted that genotyping results “significantly influenced antiplatelet drug prescribing; however, almost half of CYP2C19 LOF [loss-of-function] carriers continued to receive clopidogrel. Interventional cardiologists consider both clinical and genetic factors when selecting antiplatelet therapy following PCI [percutaneous coronary intervention]” (Tuteja et al., 2020).

CYP2D6
Tetrabenazine (brand name Xenazine) is used in the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington disease. This drug is metabolized for clearance primarily by CYP2D6. Poor metabolizers are considered to be those individuals with impaired CYP2D6 function, and dosing is often influenced by how well a patient metabolizes the drug. For example, a poor metabolizer will often have a maximum dose of 50 mg daily whereas an extensive metabolizer has a maximum dose of 100 mg daily (Suchowersky, 2023).

Tamoxifen, a drug commonly used for the treatment and prevention of recurrence of estrogen receptor positive breast cancer, is metabolized by CYP2D6. Polymorphisms of CYP2D6 have been noted to affect the efficacy of tamoxifen by affecting the amount of active metabolite produced. Endoxifen, which is the primary active metabolite of tamoxifen, has a 100-fold affinity for the estrogen receptor compared to tamoxifen, but poor metabolizers have been demonstrated to show lower than expected levels of plasma endoxifen (Ahern et al., 2017).

Codeine, which is commonly used to treat mild to moderate pain, is metabolized to morphine, a much more powerful opioid, by CYP2D6. Individuals with varying CYP2D6 activity may see negative side effects or a shorter duration of pain relief. The effect is significant enough to have caused fatalities in unusual metabolizers; for instance, an ultra-rapid metabolizing toddler was reported to have passed away after being given codeine for a routine dental operation (Kelly et al., 2012; Tantisira & Weiss, 2023).

TPMT
Thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) is an enzyme that methylates thiopurines into active thioguanine nucleotides. The TPMT gene is inherited as a monogenic co-dominant trait with ethnic differences in the frequencies of low-activity variant alleles. Individuals who inherit two inactive TPMT alleles will develop severe myelosuppression. Individuals that inherit only one inactive TPMT allele will develop moderate to severe myelosuppression, and those individuals who inherit both active TPMT alleles will have a lower risk of myelosuppression. Therefore, genotyping for TPMT is critical before starting therapy with thiopurine drugs (Relling et al., 2013).

DPYD
The dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPYD) gene encodes for the rate-limiting enzyme dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase, which is involved in catabolism of fluoropyrimidine drugs used in the treatment of solid tumors. Decreased DPD activity increases the risk for severe or even fatal drug toxicity when patients are being treated with fluoropyrimidine drugs. Numerous genetic variants in the DPYD gene have been identified that alter the protein sequence or mRNA splicing; however, some of these variants have no effect on DPD enzyme activity. The most studied causal variant of DPYD haplotype (HapB3) spans intron 5 to exon 11 and affects protein function. The most common variant in Europeans is HapB3 with a c.1129–5923C>G DPYD variant which demonstrates decreased function with carrier frequency of 4.7%, followed by c.190511G>A (carrier frequency: 1.6%) and c.2846A>T (carrier frequency: 0.7%). Approximately 7% of Europeans carry at least one decreased function DPYD variant. In people with African ancestry, the most common variant is c.557A>G (rs115232898, p.Y186C) and is relatively common (3–5% carrier frequency). Other DPYD decreased function variants are rare. Therefore, most available genetic tests focus on identifying the most common variants with well-established risk: (c.190511G>A, c.1679T>G, c.2846A>T, c.1129– 5923C>G) (Amstutz et al., 2018).

TYMS
TYMS (thymidylate synthetase) encodes an enzyme necessary for thymidine production. As with DPYD, TYMS is thought to be involved with the toxicity of fluoropyrimidines. Fluorouracil (FU)’s primary metabolite inhibits thymidylate synthetase by forming a stable complex with thymidylate synthetase and folate, thereby blocking activity of the enzyme. Polymorphisms in the TYMS gene further affect the interaction between TYMS and FU, potentially increasing the toxicity of FU. Genotyping of TYMS prior to treatment with FU or capecitabine has been suggested for clinical practice, but data has been varied (Krishnamurthi & Kamath, 2024). 

Castro-Rojas et al. (2017) evaluated TYMS genotypes as predictors of both clinical response and toxicity to fluoropyrimidine-based treatment for colorectal cancer. A total of 105 patients were genotyped. The authors noted that while the 2R/2R genotype was associated with clinical response (odds ratio = 3.45), the genotype was also associated with severe toxicity (odds ratio = 5.21). The genotype was thought to be associated with low TYMS expression. The authors further identified the rs2853542 and rs151264360 alleles to be independent predictors of response failure to chemotherapy (Castro-Rojas et al., 2017).

HLAs
Human Leukocyte antigens (HLAs) are divided into three regions, such as class I, class II and class III. Each class has many gene loci, expressed genes and pseudogenes. The class I encodes HLA-A, HLA-B, HLA-C and other antigens. The class II encodes HLA-DP, DQ and DR. The class III region is located between class I and class II and does not encode any HLAs, but other immune response proteins (Viatte, 2023). 

An article published by van der Wouden et al. (2019) reports on the development of the new PGx-Passport panel (pre-emptive pharmacogenetics-passport panel), which is able to test “58 germline variant alleles, located within 14 genes (CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP3A5, DPYD, F5, HLA-A, HLA-B, NUDT15, SLCO1B1, TPMT, UGT1A1, and VKORC1)”; this standardized panel is based on the Dutch Pharmacogenetics Working Group (DPWG) guidelines and will help physicians to optimize drug prescription in 49 common drugs. It is recommended by the authors that commercial and hospital laboratories utilize this panel for personalized medicinal purposes. Drug optimization in the 49 commonly prescribed drugs includes ten antidepressants, five immunosuppressants, five anti-cancer drugs, four anti-infectives, four anticoagulants, four antiepileptics, four antipsychotics, three proton pump inhibitors, two anti-arrhythmics, two analgesics, two antilipidemics, one antihypertensive, one psychostimulant, one anticontraceptive and one Gaucher disease drug (van der Wouden et al., 2019).

Proprietary Testing
Due to the increase in pharmacogenetic genotyping, proprietary gene panels have become commercially available. Panels encompassing the most common genes that influence drug metabolism have increased in usage. For example, Myriad’s new proprietary panel “GeneSight” proposes it can “predict poorer antidepressant outcomes and to help guide healthcare providers to more genetically optimal medications,” thereby leading to better patient outcomes. The test assesses every known metabolic pathway (CYP450 or otherwise) for a given drug and their metabolites, as well as the pharmacodynamic activity of the compound and its metabolites, any FDA information on that drug, and other validated research on the relevant alleles; this information is then integrated with the genetic test results. This allows the test to categorize the 64 medications into three categories: “green (use as directed), yellow (some moderate gene-drug interaction) and red (significant gene-drug interaction).” Myriad states that this allows every metabolic pathway of a drug to be evaluated instead of the “one gene, one drug” view. Other GeneSight variations, such as GeneSight Psychotropic used for psychotropic medications, exist as well (Myriad, 2016, 2019, 2022). Still, other companies such as Mayo Clinic and Sema4 have developed their own pharmacogenetic panels, each with individually chosen analytes (Mayo, 2023; Sema4, 2022).

Benitez et al. (2018) assessed the cost-effectiveness of pharmacogenomics in treating psychiatric disorders. The authors compared 205 members that received guidance from GeneSight’s Psychotropic to 478 members that received “treatment-as-usual” (TAU). Reimbursement costs were calculated over the 12 months pre- and post-index event periods. The authors found a total post-index cost savings of $5505, which was equivalent to a savings of $0.07 per-member-per-month (PMPM). The authors also evaluated the savings at different adoption rates of the GeneSight test. At 5% adoption, commercial payer savings was calculated at $0.02 PMPM and at 40% adoption, savings was $0.15 PMPM (Benitez et al., 2018).

The AmpliChip® (Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.) is the FDA-cleared test for CYP450 genotyping. This test genotypes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19. From the FDA website: “The AmpliChip CYP4502C19 Test is designed to identify specific nucleic acid sequences and query for the presence of certain known sequence polymorphisms through analysis of the pattern of hybridization to a series of probes that are specifically complementary either to wild-type or mutant sequences” (FDA, 2005). The analytical accuracy was evaluated at 99.6%, or 806 of 809 samples identified correctly. This test assesses a total of 30 alleles, three for CYP219 and 27 for CYP2D6 (FDA, 2005).

The OneOme RightMed Pharmacogenomic Test analyzes more than 100 variants in 27 genes to study how a patient may respond to certain medications. The test covers CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C Cluster, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP4F2, COMT, DPYD, DRD2, F2, F5, GRIK4, HLA-A, HLA-B, HTR2A, HTR2C, IL28B (IFNL4), MTHFR*, NUDT15, OPRM1, SLC6A4, SLCO1B1, TPMT, UGT1A1, and VKORC1 (OneOme, 2021). Analytical validity of the test was assessed by comparing RightMed test results with bi-directional Sanger sequencing results, which resulted in 100% concordance. The RightMed test detects CYP2D6 deletions, duplications, and hybrid alleles, but cannot differentiate duplications in the presence of a deletion (GTR, 2017). 

Clinical Utility and Validity
A study evaluating GeneSight Psychotropic’s clinical utility was performed by Greden et al. (2019); a total of 1167 patients with major depressive disorder were split into two randomized groups: treatment as usual (TAU) and pharmacogenetic-guided. Medications were classified as “congruent” (use as directed’ or ‘use with caution’ test categories) or “incongruent” (‘use with increased caution and with more frequent monitoring’ test category) with test results. After eight weeks, the authors found a statistically significant improvement in response and remission; 26% for the pharmacogenetic arm compared 19.9% for TAU and 15.3% for remission compared to 10.1% for TAU (Greden et al., 2019). The authors concluded that pharmacogenetic testing did not improve results, but significantly improved response and remission rates for “difficult-to-treat depression patients over standard of care” (Greden et al., 2019).

Kekic et al. (2020) studied genetic variants that commonly affect supportive care medications, which include, antidepressants, antiemetics, and analgesics, used in oncology practice. A total of 196 cancer patients were genotyped using a multi-gene panel, OneOme RightMed. The panel assessed 27 genes, including CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP3A4, COMT, OPRM1, GRIK4, HTR2A, SLC6A4, associated with pain medications, antidepressants, and antiemetics. Of the 196 patients, 19.9% had prostate cancer, 17.9% had colorectal cancer, 14.8% had melanoma, and 47.4% had other cancer types. All 196 patients had at least one actionable polymorphism related to these supportive care medications, specifically, in CYP2C19 and CYP2D6. Specifically, 67.3% of the patients had other than normal CYP2D6 metabolizer phenotype and 57.1% had other than normal CYP2C19 metabolizer phenotype. Based on the results, 37 patients were recommended an alternative analgesic, nine were recommended an alternative antiemetic, and 51 were recommended an alternative anti-depressant (Kekic et al., 2020). 

Plumpton et al. (2019) evaluated the cost-effectiveness of panel tests with various pharmacogenes. The constructed multigene panel included HLA-A*31:01, HLA-B*15:02, HLA-B*57:01, HLA-B*58:01, HLA-B (158T), and HLA-DQB1 (126Q), which are involved with various treatments (abacavir, carbamazepine, et al). The constructed multigene panel was found to provide a cost savings of $491 if all findings for all alleles were acted on, regardless of an allele’s individual cost-effectiveness. Testing for patients eligible for abacavir (HLA-B*57:01) and clozapine (HLA-B (158T) and HLA-DQB1 (126Q)) was found to be cost-effective. However, testing for patients eligible for allopurinol (HLA-B*58:01) was not found to be cost-effective. Furthermore, testing for HLA-A*31:01 for carbamazepine was found to be cost-effective, but not testing for HLA-B*15:02 (Plumpton et al., 2019).

Braten et al. (2020) researched the impact of CYP2C19 genotyping on the antidepressant drug sertraline, which is metabolized by the polymorphic CYP2C19 enzyme. A total of 1202 patients participated and submitted 2190 sertraline serum samples. All patients were categorized based on CYP2C19 genotype-predicted phenotype subgroups; these groups include normal (NM), ultra-rapid (UM), intermediate (IM), and poor metabolizer (PM). Serum samples showed that CYP2C19 IM and PM patients had significantly higher sertraline concentrations compared to NMs; “Based on the relative differences in serum concentrations compared to NMs, dose reductions of 60% and 25% should be considered in PMs and IMs, respectively, to reduce the risk of sertraline overexposure in these patients” (Braten et al., 2020).

Roscizewski et al. (2021) conducted a retrospective observational study to determine what effect pharmacogenomic testing had on “treatment decisions in patients with depressive symptoms in an interprofessional primary care setting.” From April 2019 to March 2021, they identified 78 patients who underwent pharmacogenomic testing for psychotropic medications. They found that 53.8% of patients “experienced a change to their antidepressant regiment after [pharmacogenomic] testing,” with the most cited change being addition of another antidepressant, followed by switching the antidepressant, then increased dose. This demonstrated how pharmacogenomic testing could be useful in informing clinical decision making at the beginning of treatment or “in those who experience an inadequate response to their prescribed regimen” and ensuring optimal patient recovery. 

Stevenson et al. (2021) aimed to assess the potential impact of multigene pharmacogenomic testing among those hospitalized with COVID-19 in the United States. Through a cross-sectional analysis with electronic health records, researchers “characterized medication orders, focusing on medications with actionable guidance related to 14 commonly assayed genes (CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, CYP3A5, DPYD, G6PD, HLA-A, HLA-B, IFNL3, NUDT15, SLCO1B1, TPMT, UGT1A1, and VKORC1).” From their cohort, they found that 64 unique medications with pharmacogenomic guidance were ordered at least once, and about 89.7% of patients “had at least one order for a medication with PGx guidance and… (23.1%) had orders for 4 or more actionable medications.” Through a simulation analysis, they estimated that “17 treatment modifications per 100 patients would be enabled if [pharmacogenomic] results were available,” and that the genes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 were responsible for most of the treatment modifications. Medications most affected included ondansetron, oxycodone, and clopidogrel. With additional investigations that support these findings, pharmacogenomic testing would better inform the curation of individualized treatment plans for patients suffering from severe COVID-19. 

Galli et al. (2021) studied the use of guided selection of antiplatelet therapy for patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. The authors conducted a meta-analysis that included 3656 relevant articles with 20743 patients. Overall, “guided selection of antiplatelet therapy was associated with a reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events and reduced bleeding, although not statistically significant.” Additionally, cardiovascular death, myocardial infraction, stent thrombosis, and minor bleeding were all reduced with guided therapy compared to standard therapy, but the risks of all-cause death and major bleeding did not differ. The authors concluded that “guided selection of antiplatelet therapy improved both composite and individual efficacy outcomes with a favourable safety profile, driven by a reduction in minor bleeding, supporting the use of platelet function or genetic testing to optimise the choice of agent in patients undergoing PCI” (Galli et al., 2021).

Oslin et al. (2022) conducted a randomized clinical trial that compared treatment guided by pharmacogenomic testing vs. usual care “to determine whether pharmacogenomic testing affects antidepressant medication selection and whether such testing leads to better clinical outcomes”. Participants of this clinical trial included 676 clinicians and 1944 patients. Criteria for patient enrollment were those with major depressive disorder who were initiating or switching treatment with a single antidepressant and exclusion included those who have active substance use disorder, mania, psychosis, or concurrent treatment with a specified list of medications. Results of this study determined “remission rates over 24 weeks were higher among patients whose care was guided by pharmacogenomic testing than those in usual care (OR, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.05 to 1.57]; P = .02; risk difference, 2.8% [95% CI, 0.6% to 5.1%]) but were not significantly higher at week 24 when 130 patients in the pharmacogenomic-guided group and 126 patients in the usual care group were in remission (estimated risk difference, 1.5% [95%CI, -2.4% to 5.3%]; P = .45)”. In conclusion, in provision of pharmacogenomic testing for drug-gene interaction amongst patients with major depressive disorder, pharmacogenomic testing “reduced prescription of medications with predicted drug-gene interactions compared to usual care. Provision test results had small nonpersistent effects on symptom remission” (Oslin et al., 2022). 

Ghanbarian et al. (2023) studied the cost-effectiveness of pharmacogenetic testing used to guide prescription of antidepressants. The authors looked at data from patients with major depressive disorder in British Columbia, Canada. The data included unique patient characteristics, including metabolizer phenotypes, incremental costs, life-years, and quality-adjusted life-years. “Pharmacogenomic-guided care was associated with 37% fewer patients with refractory depression over 20 years.” The costs of pharmacogenetic testing were estimated to be offset within about two years of use, with an overall saving of 956 million Canadian dollars (4926 Canadian dollars per patient) (Ghanbarian et al., 2023). 

The 2023 PREPARE (preemptive pharmacogenomic testing for preventing adverse drug reactions) trial investigated the effects of pre-emptive genotyping using a pharmacogenetic panel on adverse drug reactions. Swen et al. (2023) conducted an “open-label, multicentre, controlled, cluster-randomised, crossover implementation study of a 12-gene pharmacogenetic panel in 18 hospitals, nine community health centres, and 28 community pharmacies in seven European countries.” A total of 6944 patients receiving their first prescription for a clinically recommended drug were included in the study. The participants were divided into a study group, which received genotyping and recommended treatment adjustments, and a control group, which received standard care. The primary outcome measured was the occurrence of clinically relevant adverse drug reactions within 12-weeks. A clinically relevant adverse drug reactions occurred in 21.5% of patients in the study group (N=2923), and 28.6% of patients in the control group (N=3270). The authors concluded that “genotype-guided treatment using a 12-gene pharmacogenetic panel significantly reduced the incidence of clinically relevant adverse drug reactions and was feasible across diverse European health-care system organisations and settings” (Swen et al., 2023)

Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) 
CPIC guidelines provide guidance to physicians on how to use genetic testing to help them to optimize drug therapy. The guidelines and projects were endorsed by several professional societies including The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP), The American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (ASCPT) and The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) (CPIC, 2023b).

In their list of guidelines, CPIC provides specific therapeutic recommendations for drugs metabolized by Cytochrome P450 enzymes and other important metabolic enzymes.

CYP2C9 Genotypes

Drug

CYP2C9/ Phenotype

Summary of CPIC Therapeutic Recommendations

Level of Recommendations

Reference

Phenytoin/fosphenytoin based on HLA-B*15:02

HLA-B*15:02 Positive- Normal Metabolizer (NM), Intermediate Metabolizer (EM), and Poor Metabolism (M)

If patient is phenytoin-naïve, do not use phenytoin/fosphenytoin. Avoid carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine.

If the patient has previously used phenytoin continuously for longer than three months without incidence of cutaneous adverse reactions, cautiously consider use of phenytoin in the future.

Strong

(Caudle et al., 2014; Karnes et al., 2021)

HLA-B*15:02 Negative-Normal Metabolizer (NM)

No adjustments needed from typical dosing strategies. Subsequent doses should be adjusted according to therapeutic drug monitoring, response, and side effects. An HLA-B*15:02 negative test does not eliminate the risk of phenytoin-induced SJS/TEN, and patients should be carefully monitored according to standard practice.

Strong

HLA-B*15:02 Negative-Intermediate Metabolizer (IM)

No adjustments needed from typical dosing strategies. Subsequent doses should be adjusted according to therapeutic drug monitoring, response and side effects. An HLA-B*15:02 negative test does not eliminate the risk of phenytoin-induced SJS/TEN, and patients should be carefully monitored according to standard practice. For first dose, use typical initial or loading dose. For subsequent doses, use approximately 25% less than typical maintenance dose. Subsequent doses should be adjusted according to therapeutic drug monitoring, response and side effects.

Moderate

HLA-B*15:02 Negative-Poor Metabolizer (PM)

For first dose, use typical initial or loading dose. For subsequent doses use approximately 50% less than typical maintenance dose. Subsequent doses should be adjusted according to therapeutic drug monitoring, response, and side effects. An HLA-B*15:02 negative test does not eliminate the risk of phenytoin-induced SJS/TEN, and patients should be carefully monitored according to standard practice.

Strong

 

 

Warfarin

Various phenotypes

Genotype-guided warfarin dosing is very complex and involves a combination of CYP2C9, VKORC1, CYP4F2 and rs12777823 as well as an algorithm including ancestry information.

Multiple

(Johnson et al., 2017)

Celecoxib, flurbiprofen, ibuprofen, lornoxicam

NM

“In accordance with the prescribing information, use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals”

Strong

(Theken et al., 2020)

IM (Activity Score [AS] = 1.5)

“Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. In accordance with the prescribing information, use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.”

Moderate

IM (AS = 1)

“Initiate therapy with lowest recommended starting dose. Titrate dose upward to clinical effect or maximum recommended dose with caution. In accordance with the prescribing information, use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. Carefully monitor adverse events, such as blood pressure and kidney function during course of therapy.”

Moderate

PM

“Initiate therapy with 25–50% of the lowest recommended starting dose. Titrate dose upward to clinical effect or 25–50% of the maximum recommended dose with caution. In accordance with the prescribing information, use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. Upward dose titration should not occur until after steady-state is reached (at least 8 days for celecoxib and 5 days for ibuprofen, flurbiprofen, and lornoxicam after first dose in PMs). Carefully monitor adverse events such as blood pressure and kidney function during course of therapy. Alternatively, consider an alternate therapy not metabolized by CYP2C9 or not significantly impacted by CYP2C9 genetic variants in vivo”

Moderate

Meloxicam

NM

“Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. In accordance with the prescribing information, use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals”

Strong

(Theken et al., 2020)

IM, AS 1.5

See NM

Moderate

IM, AS 1

“Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. In accordance with the prescribing information, use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. Upward dose titration should not occur until after steady-state is reached (at least 7 days). Carefully monitor adverse events, such as blood pressure and kidney function during course of therapy. Alternatively, consider alternative therapy. Choose an alternative therapy not metabolized by CYP2C9 or not significantly impacted by CYP2C9 genetic variants in vivo or choose an NSAID metabolized by CYP2C9 but with a shorter half-life”

Moderate

PM

“Choose an alternative therapy not metabolized by CYP2C9 or not significantly impacted by CYP2C9 genetic variants in vivo or choose an NSAID metabolized by CYP2C9 but with a shorter half-life”

Moderate

Piroxicam/Tenoxicam

NM

“Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. In accordance with the prescribing information, use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.”

Strong

(Theken et al., 2020)

IM AS 1.5

“Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. In accordance with the prescribing information, use the lowest effective dosage for shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.”

Moderate

IM AS 1

“Choose an alternative therapy not metabolized by CYP2C9 or not significantly impacted by CYP2C9 genetic variants in vivo or choose an NSAID metabolized by CYP2C9 but with a shorter half-life”

Moderate (Optional for Tenoxicam)

PM

“Choose an alternative therapy not metabolized by CYP2C9 or not significantly impacted by CYP2C9 genetic variants in vivo or choose an NSAID metabolized by CYP2C9 but with a shorter half-life”

Moderate (Optional for Tenoxicam)

CYP2D6 Genotype 

Drug

CYP2D6 Phenotype

Summary of CPIC Therapeutic Recommendations

Level of Recommendations

Reference

Amitriptyline and Nortripyline

Other TCAs (tricyclic antidepressants): clomipramine, desipramine, doxepin, imipramine, and trimipramine

Ultra-rapid Metabolizer (URM)

Avoid tricyclic use due to potential lack of efficacy. Consider alternative drug not metabolized by CYP2D6. If a TCA is warranted, consider titrating to a higher target dose (compared to normal metabolizers). Utilize therapeutic drug monitoring to guide dose adjustments.

Strong (recommendation for other TCAs is Optional)

(Hicks et al., 2017)

Normal Metabolizer (NM)

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Strong (recommendation for other TCAs is Strong)

IM

Consider a 25% reduction of recommended starting dose. Utilize therapeutic drug monitoring to guide dose adjustments.

Moderate (recommendation for other TCAs is Optional)

PM

Avoid tricyclic use due to potential for side effects. Consider alternative drug not metabolized by CYP2D6. If a TCA is warranted, consider a 50% reduction of recommended starting dose. Utilize therapeutic drug monitoring to guide dose adjustments.

Strong (recommendation for other TCAs is Optional)

Codeine

URM

Avoid codeine use due to potential for toxicity.

Strong

(Crews et al., 2021)

EM

Use label-recommended age or weight-specific dosing.

Strong

IM

Use label-recommended age or weight-specific dosing. If no response, consider alternative analgesics such as morphine or a nonopioid.

Moderate

PM

Avoid codeine use due to lack of efficacy.

Strong

Paroxetine

URM

Select alternative drug not predominantly metabolized by CYP2D6

Moderate

(Bousman et al., 2023)

EM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Strong

IM

Consider a lower starting dose and slower titration schedule as compared with normal metabolizers.

Optional

PM

Consider a 50% reduction in recommended starting dose, slower titration schedule, and a 50% lower maintenance dose as compared with normal metabolizers.

Moderate

Fluvoxamine

URM

No recommendation due to lack of evidence.

No recommendation

(Hicks et al., 2015)

EM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Strong

IM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Moderate

PM

Consider a 25% – 50% reduction of recommended starting dose and titrate to response or use an alternative drug not metabolized by CYP2D6.

Optional

 

 

Ondansetron and Tropisetron

URM

Select alternative drug not predominantly metabolized by CYP2D6 (i.e., granisetron).

Moderate

(Bell et al., 2017)

NM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Strong

IM

Insufficient evidence demonstrating clinical impact based on CYP2D6 genotype. Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

No recommendation

PM

Insufficient evidence demonstrating clinical impact based on CYP2D6 genotype. Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

No recommendation

Tamoxifen

URM

Avoid moderate and strong CYP2D6 inhibitors. Initiate therapy with recommended standard of care dosing (tamoxifen 20 mg/day).

Strong

(Goetz et al., 2018)

NM

Avoid moderate and strong CYP2D6 inhibitors. Initiate therapy with recommended standard of care dosing (tamoxifen 20 mg/day).

Strong

NM/IM

Consider hormonal therapy such as an aromatase inhibitor for postmenopausal women or aromatase inhibitor along with ovarian function suppression in premenopausal women, given that these approaches are superior to tamoxifen regardless of CYP2D6 genotype. If aromatase inhibitor use is contraindicated, consideration should be given to use a higher but FDA approved tamoxifen dose (40 mg/day).45 Avoid CYP2D6 strong to weak inhibitors.

Optional (Controversy remains)

IM

Consider hormonal therapy such as an aromatase inhibitor for postmenopausal women or aromatase inhibitor along with ovarian function suppression in premenopausal women, given that these approaches are superior to tamoxifen regardless of CYP2D6 genotype. If aromatase inhibitor use is contraindicated, consideration should be given to use a higher but FDA approved tamoxifen dose (40 mg/day). Avoid CYP2D6 strong to weak inhibitors.

Moderate

PM

Recommend alternative hormonal therapy such as an aromatase inhibitor for postmenopausal women or aromatase inhibitor along with ovarian function suppression in premenopausal women given that these approaches are superior to tamoxifen regardless of CYP2D6 genotype and based on knowledge that CYP2D6 poor metabolizers switched from tamoxifen to anastrozole do not have an increased risk of recurrence. Note, higher dose tamoxifen (40 mg/day) increases but does not normalize endoxifen concentrations and can be considered if there are contraindications to aromatase inhibitor therapy.

Strong

Atomoxetine (for children)

URM

Initiate with a dose of 0.5 mg/kg/day and increase to 1.2 mg/kg/day after 3 days. If no clinical response and in the absence of adverse events after 2 weeks, consider obtaining a peak plasma concentration (1 – 2 hours after dose administered). If < 200 ng/mL, consider a proportional increase in dose to approach 400 ng/mL.

Moderate

(Brown et al., 2019)

NM

Initiate with a dose of 0.5 mg/kg and increase to 1.2 mg/kg/day after 3 days. If no clinical response and in the absence of adverse events after 2 weeks, consider obtaining a peak plasma concentration (1 – 2 hours after dose administered). If < 200 ng/mL, consider a proportional increase in dose to approach 400 ng/mL.

Moderate

IM

Initiate with a dose of 0.5 mg/kg/day and if no clinical response and in the absence of adverse events after 2 weeks, consider obtaining a plasma concentration 2 – 4 hours after dosing. If response is inadequate and concentration is < 200 ng/mL, consider a proportional dose increase to achieve a concentration to approach 400 ng/mL.b,c. If unacceptable side effects are present at any time, consider a reduction in dose.

Moderate

PM

Initiate with a dose of 0.5 mg/kg/day and if no clinical response and in the absence of adverse events after 2 weeks, consider obtaining a plasma concentration 4 hours after dosing. If response is inadequate and concentration is < 200 ng/mL, consider a proportional dose increase to achieve a concentration to approach 400 ng/mL.b,c. If unacceptable side effects are present at any time, consider a reduction in dose.

Moderate

Atomoxetine (for adults)

URM

Initiate with a dose of 40 mg/day and increase to 80 mg/ day after 3 days. If no clinical response and in the absence of adverse events after 2 weeks, consider increasing dose to 100 mg/day. If no clinical response observed after 2 weeks, consider obtaining a peak plasma concentration (1 – 2 hours after dose administered). If < 200 ng/mL, consider a proportional increase in dose to approach 400 ng/mL.b,c. Dosages > 100 mg/day may be needed to achieve target concentrations.

Moderate

NM

Initiate with a dose of 40 mg/day and increase to 80 mg/day after 3 days. If no clinical response and in the absence of adverse events after 2 weeks, consider increasing dose to 100 mg/day. If no clinical response observed after 2 weeks, consider obtaining a peak plasma concentration (1 – 2 hours after dose administered). If < 200 ng/mL, consider a proportional increase in dose to approach 400 ng/mL.b,c. Dosages > 100 mg/day may be needed to achieve target concentrations.

Moderate

IM

Initiate with a dose of 40 mg/day and if no clinical response and in the absence of adverse events after 2 weeks increase dose to 80 mg/day. If response is inadequate after 2 weeks consider obtaining a plasma concentration 2 – 4 hours after dosing. If concentration is < 200 ng/mL, consider a proportional dose increase to achieve a concentration to approach 400 ng/mL.b,c. If unacceptable side effects are present at any time, consider a reduction in dose.

Moderate

PM

Initiate with a dose of 40 mg/day and if no clinical response and in the absence of adverse events after 2 weeks increase dose to 80 mg/day. If response is inadequate after 2 weeks, consider obtaining a plasma concentration 2 – 4 hours after dosing. If concentration is < 200 ng/mL, consider a proportional dose increase to achieve a concentration to approach 400 ng/mL.b,c. If unacceptable side effects are present at any time, consider a reduction in dose.

Moderate

CYP2B6 Genotypes 

Drug

CYP2B6 Phenotype

Summary of CPIC Therapeutic Recommendations

Level of Recommendations

Reference

Efavirenz (for children > 40 kg and adults)

URM

Initiate efavirenz with standard dosing (600 mg/day)

Strong

(Desta et al., 2019)

Rapid Metabolizer (RM)

Initiate efavirenz with standard dosing (600 mg/day)

Strong

NM

Initiate efavirenz with standard dosing (600 mg/day)

Strong

IM

Consider initiating efavirenz with decreased dose of 400 mg/day

Moderate

PM

Consider initiating efavirenz with decreased dose of 400 or 200 mg/day.

Moderate

CYP2C19 Genotype 

Drug

Phenotype

Summary of CPIC Therapeutic Recommendations

Level of Recommendations for amitriptyline

Reference

Amitriptyline and Nortripyline

Other TCAs: clomipramine, doxepin, imipramine, and trimipramine

URM, RM

Avoid tertiary amine use due to potential for sub-optimal response. Consider alternative drug not metabolized by CYP2C19. TCAs without major CYP2C19 metabolism include the secondary amines nortriptyline and desipramine. If a tertiary amine is warranted, utilize therapeutic drug monitoring to guide dose adjustments.

Optional (recommendation for other TCAs is Optional)

(Hicks et al., 2016)

NM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Strong (recommendation for other TCAs is Strong)

IM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

 

Strong (recommendation for other TCAs is Optional)

PM

Avoid tertiary amine use due to potential for sub-optimal response. Consider alternative drug not metabolized by CYP2C19. TCAs without major CYP2C19 metabolism include the secondary amines nortriptyline and desipramine. For tertiary amines, consider a 50% reduction of the recommended starting dose. Utilize therapeutic drug monitoring to guide dose adjustments.

Moderate (recommendation for other TCAs is Optional)

Citalopram and Escitalopram

URM

Consider a clinically appropriate alternative antidepressant not predominantly metabolized by CYP2C19. If citalopram or escitalopram are clinically appropriate, and adequate efficacy is not achieved at standard maintenance dosing, consider titrating to a higher maintenance dose.

Strong

(Bousman et al., 2023)

EM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Strong

IM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. Consider a slower titration schedule and lower maintenance dose than normal metabolizers.

Moderate

PM

Consider a clinically appropriate antidepressant not predominantly metabolized by CYP2C19. If citalopram or escitalopram are clinically appropriate, consider a lower starting dose, slower titration schedule, and 50% reduction of the standard maintenance dose as compared with normal metabolizers

Strong

 

Sertraline

URM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. 

Strong

(Bousman et al., 2023)

EM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Strong

IM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. Consider a slower titration schedule and lower maintenance dose than CYP2C19 normal metabolizers

Moderate

PM

Consider a lower starting dose, slower titration schedule, and 50% reduction of standard maintenance dose as compared with CYP2C19 normal metabolizers or select a clinically appropriate alternative antidepressant not predominantly metabolized by CYP2C19.

Moderate

Clopidogrel

URM, RM, NM

If considering clopidogrel, use at standard dose (75 mg/day)

Strong

(Lee et al., 2022)

IM, Likely IM

Avoid standard dose clopidogrel (75 mg) if possible. Use prasugrel or ticagrelor at standard dose if no contraindication.

Strong

PM, Likely PM

Avoid clopidogrel if possible. Use prasugrel or ticagrelor at standard dose if no contraindication.

Strong

Voriconazole

URM

Choose an alternative agent that is not dependent on CYP2C19 metabolism as primary therapy in lieu of voriconazole. Such agents include isavuconazole, liposomal amphotericin B, and posaconazole.

Moderate

(Moriyama et al., 2017)

RM

Choose an alternative agent that is not dependent on CYP2C19 metabolism as primary therapy in lieu of voriconazole. Such agents include isavuconazole, liposomal amphotericin B, and posaconazole.

Moderate

NM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Strong

IM

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.

Moderate

PM

Choose an alternative agent that is not dependent on CYP2C19 metabolism as primary therapy in lieu of voriconazole. Such agents include isavuconazole, liposomal amphotericin B, and posaconazole. In the event that voriconazole is considered to be the most appropriate agent, based on clinical advice, for a patient with poor metabolizer genotype, voriconazole should be administered at a preferably lower than standard dosage with careful therapeutic drug monitoring.

Moderate

Proton Pump Inhibitors (omeprazole, lansoprazole, and pantoprazole)

All recommendations here are “Optional” for dexlansoprazole

URM

“Increase starting daily dose by 100%. Daily dose may be given in divided doses. Monitor for efficacy.”

Optional

(Lima et al., 2020)

RM

“Initiate standard starting daily dose. Consider increasing dose by 50% – 100% for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection and erosive esophagitis. Daily dose may be given in divided doses. Monitor for efficacy”

Moderate

Normal

“Initiate standard starting daily dose. Consider increasing dose by 50% – 100% for the treatment of H. pylori infection and erosive esophagitis. Daily dose may be given in divided doses. Monitor for efficacy.”

Moderate

Likely IM/IM

“Initiate standard starting daily dose. For chronic therapy (>12 weeks) and efficacy achieved, consider 50% reduction in daily dose and monitor for continued efficacy.”

Optional

Likely PM/PM

“Initiate standard starting daily dose. For chronic therapy (> 12 weeks) and efficacy achieved, consider 50% reduction in daily dose and monitor for continued efficacy.”

Moderate

CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 Genotypes (Caudle et al., 2020; Hicks et al., 2016) for Amitriptyline, Clomipramine, Doxepin, Imipramine, and Trimipramine

Phenotype

CYP2D6

CYP2D6

CYP2D6

CYP2D6

CYP2C19

UM

NM

IM

PM

URM

Avoid amitriptyline use Recommendation: Optional

Consider alternative drug not metabolized by CYP2C19. Recommendation: Optional

Consider alternative drug not metabolized by CYP2C19. Recommendation: Optional

Avoid amitriptyline use Recommendation: Optional

NM

Avoid amitriptyline use. If amitriptyline is warranted, consider titrating to a higher target dose (compared to normal metabolizers) Recommendation: Strong

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. Recommendation: Strong

Consider a 25% reduction of recommended starting dose. Recommendation: Moderate

Avoid amitriptyline use. If Amitriptyline is warranted, consider a 50% reduction of recommended starting dose. Recommendation: Strong

IM

Avoid amitriptyline use Recommendation: Optional

Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose. Recommendation: Strong

Consider a 25% reduction of recommended starting dose. Recommendation: Optional

This recommendation may also be considered for diplotypes with an activity score of 1.

Avoid amitriptyline use. If Amitriptyline is warranted, consider a 50% reduction of recommended starting dose. Recommendation: Optional

PM

Avoid amitriptyline use Recommendation: Optional

Avoid amitriptyline use. If Amitriptyline is warranted, consider a 50% reduction of recommended starting dose. Recommendation: Moderate

Avoid amitriptyline use Recommendation: Optional

Avoid amitriptyline use Recommendation: Optional

TPMT Genotype 

Drug

TPMT Phenotype

Summary of CPIC Therapeutic Recommendations

Level of Recommendations

Reference

Mercaptopurine (MP)

NM

Start with normal starting dose (e.g., 75 mg/m2/d or 1.5 mg/kg/d) and adjust doses of MP (and of any other myelosuppressive therapy) without any special emphasis on MP compared to other agents. Allow 2 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. Consider evaluating TPMT erythrocyte activity to assess TPMT phenotype. If thiopurines are required and either TPMT or NUDT15 status is unknown, monitor closely for toxicity.

Strong

(Relling et al., 2018)

IM

Start with reduced doses (start at 30% – 70% of full dose: e.g., at 50 mg/m2/d or 0.75 mg/kg/d) and adjust doses of MP based on degree of myelosuppression and disease-specific guidelines. Allow 2 – 4 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. In those who require a dosage reduction based on myelosuppression, the median dose may be ~ 40% lower (44 mg/m2) than that tolerated in wild-type patients (75 mg/m2). In setting of myelosuppression, and depending on other therapy, emphasis should be on reducing MP over other agents. Consider evaluating TPMT erythrocyte activity to assess TPMT phenotype. If thiopurines are required and either TPMT or NUDT15 status is unknown, monitor closely for toxicity.

Strong

PM

For malignancy, start with drastically reduced doses (reduce daily dose by 10-fold and reduce frequency to thrice weekly instead of daily, e.g., 10 mg/m2/d given just 3 days/week) and adjust doses of MP based on degree of myelosuppression and disease-specific guidelines. Allow 4 – 6 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. In setting of myelosuppression, emphasis should be on reducing MP over other agents. For nonmalignant conditions, consider alternative nonthiopurine immunosuppressant therapy. Consider evaluating TPMT erythrocyte activity to assess TPMT phenotype. If thiopurines are required and either TPMT or NUDT15 status is unknown, monitor closely for toxicity.

Strong

Azathioprine

NM

Start with normal starting dose (e.g., 2 – 3 mg/kg/d) and adjust doses of azathioprine based on disease-specific guidelines. Allow 2 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. Consider evaluating erythrocyte TPMT activity to assess TPMT phenotype. If thiopurines are required and TPMT status is unknown, monitor closely for toxicity.

Strong

(Relling et al., 2018)

IM

Start with reduced starting doses (30% – 80% of normal dose) if normal starting dose is 2 – 3 mg/kg/day, (e.g., 0.6 – 2.4 mg/kg/day), and adjust doses of azathioprine based on degree of myelosuppression and disease-specific guidelines. Allow 2 – 4 weeks to reach steady-state after each dose adjustment. Consider evaluating erythrocyte TPMT activity to assess TPMT phenotype. If thiopurines are required and TPMT status is unknown, monitor closely for toxicity.

Strong

PM

For non-malignant conditions, consider alternative-nonthiopurine immunosuppressant therapy or malignancy, start with drastically reduced doses (reduce daily dose by 10-fold and dose thrice weekly instead of daily) and adjust doses of azathioprine based on degree of myelosuppression and disease specific guidelines. Allow 4 – 6 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. Consider evaluating erythrocyte TPMT activity to assess TPMT phenotype. If thiopurines are required and TPMT status is unknown, monitor closely for toxicity.

Strong

Thioguanine

NM

Start with normal starting dose (e.g., 40 – 60 mg/m2 /day). Adjust doses of thioguanine (TG) and of other myelosuppressive therapy without any special emphasis on TG. Allow 2 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. Consider evaluating erythrocyte TPMT activity to assess TPMT phenotype. If thiopurines are required and TPMT status is unknown, monitor closely for toxicity.

Strong

(Relling et al., 2013; Relling et al., 2018)

IM

Start with reduced doses (50% to 80% of normal dose) if normal starting dose is ≥ 40 – 60 mg/m2 /day (e.g. 20-48 mg/m2 /day) and adjust doses of TG based on degree of myelosuppression and disease-specific guidelines. Allow 2 – 4 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. In setting of myelosuppression, and depending on other therapy, emphasis should be on reducing TG over other agents. Consider evaluating erythrocyte TPMT activity to assess TPMT phenotype. If thiopurines are required and TPMT status is unknown, monitor closely for toxicity.

Moderate

PM

Start with drastically reduced doses (reduce daily dose by 10-fold and dose thrice weekly instead of daily) and adjust doses of TG based on degree of myelosuppression and disease-specific guidelines. Allow 4 – 6 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. In setting of myelosuppression, emphasis should be on reducing TG over other agents. For nonmalignant conditions, consider alternative nonthiopurine immunosuppressant therapy. Consider evaluating erythrocyte TPMT activity to assess TPMT phenotype. If thiopurines are required and TPMT status is unknown, monitor closely for toxicity.

Strong

NUDT15 Genotype

Drug

NUDT15 Phenotype

Summary of CPIC Therapeutic Recommendations

Level of Recommendations

Reference

Mercaptopurine

NM

Start with normal starting dose (e.g., 75 mg/m2/day or 1.5 mg/kg/day) and adjust doses of MP (and of any other myelosuppressive therapy) without any special emphasis on MP compared to other agents. Allow 2 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment.

Strong

(Relling et al., 2018)

IM

Start with reduced doses (start at 30% – 80% of normal dose: if normal starting dose is ≥ 75 mg/m2 /day or ≥ 1.5 mg/kg/day (e.g., start at 25 – 60 mg/m2/day or 0.45 – 1.2 mg/kg/day) and adjust doses of MP based on degree of myelosuppression and disease-specific guidelines. Allow 2 – 4 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. If myelosuppression occurs, and depending on other therapy, emphasis should be on reducing mercaptopurine over other agents. If normal starting dose is already < 1.5mg/kg/day, dose reduction may not be recommended.

Strong

PM

For malignancy, initiate dose at 10 mg/m2/day and adjust dose based on myelosuppression and disease specific guidelines. Allow 4 – 6 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment. If myelosuppression occurs, emphasis should be on reducing mercaptopurine over other agents. For nonmalignant conditions, consider alternative nonthiopurine immunosuppressant therapy.

Strong

Azathioprine

NM

Start with normal starting dose (e.g., 2 – 3 mg/kg/day) and adjust doses of azathioprine based on disease-specific guidelines. Allow 2 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment.

Strong

(Relling et al., 2018)

IM

Start with reduced doses (start at 30% – 80% of normal dose: if normal starting dose is 2 – 3 mg/kg/day, (e.g., 0.6 – 2.4 mg/kg/day) and adjust doses of MP based on degree of myelosuppression and disease-specific guidelines. Allow 2 – 4 weeks to reach steady state after each dose adjustment.

Strong

PM

For nonmalignant conditions, consider alternative nonthiopurine immunosuppressant therapy. For malignant conditions, start with drastically reduced normal daily doses (reduce daily dose by 10-fold) and adjust doses of azathioprine based on degree of myelosuppression and disease specific guidelines. Allow 4 – 6 weeks to reach steady-state after each dose adjustment.

Strong

Thioguanine

NM

Start with normal starting dose (40 – 60 mg/day). Adjust doses of thioguanine and of other myelosuppressive therapy without any special emphasis on thioguanine. Allow 2 weeks to reach steady-state after each dose adjustment.

Strong

(Relling et al., 2018)

IM

Start with reduced doses (50% to 80% of normal dose) if normal starting dose is ≥ 40 – 60 mg/m2 /day (e.g., 20 – 48 mg/m2 /day) and adjust doses of thioguanine based on degree of myelosuppression and disease specific guidelines. Allow 2 – 4 weeks to reach steady-state after each dose adjustment. If myelosuppression occurs, and depending on other therapy, emphasis should be on reducing thioguanine over other agents.

Moderate

PM

Reduce doses to 25% of normal dose and adjust doses of thioguanine based on degree of myelosuppression and disease specific guidelines. Allow 4 – 6 weeks to reach steady-state after each dose adjustment. In setting of myelosuppression, emphasis should be on reducing thioguanine over other agents. For non-malignant conditions, consider alternative nonthiopurine immunosuppressant therapy.

Strong

DPYD Genotypes 

Drug

Phenotype

Summary of CPIC Therapeutic Recommendations

Level of Recommendations

Reference

5-Fluorouracil Capecitabine

NM

Based on genotype, there is no indication to change dose or therapy. Use label recommended dosage and administration.

Strong

(Amstutz et al., 2018)

IM

Reduce starting dose based on activity score followed by titration of dose based on toxicity or therapeutic drug monitoring (if available). Activity score 1: Reduce dose by 50% Activity score 1.5: Reduce dose by 25% to 50%.

Activity score 1: Strong Activity score 1.5: Moderate

PM

Activity score 0.5: Avoid use of 5-fluorouracil or 5-fluorouracil prodrug-based regimens. In the event, based on clinical advice, alternative agents are not considered a suitable therapeutic option, 5-fluorouracil should be administered at a strongly reduced dosed with early therapeutic drug monitoring. Activity score 0: Avoid use of 5-fluorouracil or 5-fluorouracil prodrug-based regimens.

Strong

HLA-B Genotypes 

Drug

Phenotype

Summary of CPIC Therapeutic Recommendations

Level of Recommendations

Reference

Abacavir

Noncarrier of HLA-B*57:01

Low or reduced risk of abacavir hypersensitivity

Strong

(Martin et al., 2014)

Carrier of HLA-B*57:01

Abacavir is not recommended.

Strong

Allopurinol

Noncarrier of HLA-B*5801 (*X/*X)

Use allopurinol per standard dosing guidelines.

Strong

(Hershfield et al., 2013; Saito et al., 2016)

Carrier of HLA-B*5801 (HLA-B*5801/*X,b HLA-B*5801/HLA-B*5801)

Allopurinol is contraindicated.

Strong

Oxcarbazepine

HLA-B*15:02 negative

Use oxcarbazepine per standard dosing guidelines.

Strong

(Phillips et al., 2018)

HLA-B*15:02 positive

If patient is oxcarbazepine-naive, do not use oxcarbazepine.

Strong

Carbamazepine

HLA-B*15:02 negative and HLA-A*31:01 negative

Use carbamazepine per standard dosing guidelines.

Strong

(Phillips et al., 2018)

HLA-B*15:02 negative and HLA-A*31:01 positive

If patient is carbamazepine-naive and alternative agents are available, do not use carbamazepine.

Strong

HLA-B*15:02 positive and any HLA-A*31:01 genotype (or HLA-A*31:01 genotype unknown)

If patient is carbamazepine-naive, do not use carbamazepine.

Strong

Additional Genotypes 

Drug/Genotype

Phenotype

Summary of CPIC Therapeutic Recommendations

Level of Recommendations

Reference

UGT1A1 for Atazanavir

EM

There is no need to avoid prescribing of atazanavir based on UGT1A1 genetic test result. Inform the patient that some patients stop atazanavir because of jaundice (yellow eyes and skin), but that this patient’s genotype makes this unlikely (less than about a 1 in 20 chance of stopping atazanavir because of jaundice).

Strong

(Gammal et al., 2016)

IM

There is no need to avoid prescribing of atazanavir based on UGT1A1 genetic test result. Inform the patient that some patients stop atazanavir because of jaundice (yellow eyes and skin), but that this patient’s genotype makes this unlikely (less than about a 1 in 20 chance of stopping atazanavir because of jaundice).

Strong

PM

Consider an alternative agent particularly where jaundice would be of concern to the patient. If atazanavir is to be prescribed, there is a high likelihood of developing jaundice that will result in atazanavir discontinuation (at least 20% and as high as 60%).

Strong

UGT1A1 for Irinotecan

N/A

N/A

A, 1A level of evidence

(CPIC, 2023a)

CFTR for Ivacaftor

Homozygous or heterozygous G551D-CFTR — e.g., G551D/ F508del, G551D/G551D, rs75527207 genotype AA or AG

Use ivacaftor according to the product label (e.g., 150 mg every 12h for patients aged 6 years and older without other diseases; modify dose in patients with hepatic impairment).

Strong

(Clancy et al., 2014)

Noncarrier of G551D-CFTR — e.g., F508del/R553X, rs75527207 genotype GG

Ivacaftor is not recommended.

Moderate

Homozygous for F508del-CFTR (F508del/F508del), rs113993960, or rs199826652 genotype del/ del

Ivacaftor is not recommended.

Moderate

G6PD for high-risk drugs (rasburicase and pegloticase)

Normal

No reason to avoid high-risk drugs based on G6PD status.

Strong

(Relling et al., 2014)

Deficient or deficient with CNSHA

Avoid use of high-risk drugs.

Strong

Variable

To ascertain G6PD status, enzyme activity must be measured. Drug use should be guided per the recommendations based on the activity-based phenotype.

Moderate

SLCO1B1 for Simvastatin

SLCO1B1 decreased function or SLCO1B1 possible decreased function

Prescribe an alternative statin depending on the desired potency. If simvastatin therapy is warranted, limit dose to <20 mg/day.

Strong

(Cooper-DeHoff et al., 2022)

SLCO1B1 poor function

Prescribe an alternative statin depending on the desired potency.

Strong

CYP3A5 for treatment with Tacrolimus

EM

Increase starting dose 1.5 – 2 times recommended starting dose. Total starting dose should not exceed 0.3 mg/kg/day. Use therapeutic drug monitoring to guide dose adjustments.

Strong

(Birdwell et al., 2015)

IM

Increase starting dose 1.5 – 2 times recommended starting dose. Total starting dose should not exceed 0.3 mg/kg/day. Use therapeutic drug monitoring to guide dose adjustments.

Strong

PM

Initiate therapy with standard recommended dose. Use therapeutic drug monitoring to guide dose adjustments.

Strong

IFNL3 treatment with Peginterferon alfa-2a, Peginterferon alfa-2b or Ribavirin

Favorable response genotype

Approximately 90% chance for SVR after 24 – 48 weeks of treatment. Approximately 80% – 90% of patients are eligible for shortened therapy (24 – 28 weeks vs. 48 weeks). Weighs in favor of using PEG-IFN-α- and RBV- containing regimens.

Strong

(Muir et al., 2014)

Unfavorable response genotype

Approximately 60% chance of SVR after 24 – 48 weeks of treatment. Approximately 50% of patients are eligible for shortened therapy regimens (24 – 28 weeks). Consider implications before initiating PEG-IFN-α- and RBV-containing regimens.

Strong

RYR1 and CACNA1S genotypes for Potent Volatile Anesthetic Agents and Succinylcholine

Malignant

Hyperthermia

Susceptible

 

Halogenated volatile anesthetics or depolarizing Halogenated volatile anesthetics or depolarizing muscle relaxants succinylcholine are relatively contraindicated in persons with MHS. They should not be used, except in extraordinary circumstances in which the benefits outweigh the risks. In general, alternative anesthetics are widely available and effective in patients with MHS.

Strong

(Gonsalves et al., 2019)

Uncertain susceptibility

Clinical findings, family history, further genetic testing and other laboratory data should guide use of halogenated volatile anesthetics or depolarizing muscle relaxants.

Strong

CPIC notes that evidence for TYMS testing is unclear or weak and have assigned TYMS a “D” level recommendation. CPIC does not recommend any change in prescription based on TYMS genotype (CPIC, 2023a).

American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) 
ACMG notes that CYP2C9 and VKORC1 testing may be useful for assessing unusual responses to warfarin, but cannot recommend for or against routine genotyping (ACMG, 2007). 

American College of Cardiology Foundation (AACF) and the American Heart Association (AHA) Joint Guidelines 
A report by the ACCF and the AHA on genetic testing for selection and dosing of clopidogrel provided the following recommendations for practice: 

  • “Clinicians must be aware that genetic variability in CYP enzymes alter clopidogrel metabolism, which in turn can affect its inhibition of platelet function. Diminished responsiveness to clopidogrel has been associated with adverse patient outcomes in registry experiences and clinical trials.”
  • “The specific impact of the individual genetic polymorphisms on clinical outcome remains to be determined (e.g., the importance of CYP2C19*2 versus *3 or *4 for a specific patient), and the frequency of genetic variability differs among ethnic groups.”
  • “Information regarding the predictive value of pharmacogenomic testing is very limited at this time; resolution of this issue is the focus of multiple ongoing studies.”
  • “The evidence base is insufficient to recommend either routine genetic or platelet function testing at the present time. There is no information that routine testing improves outcome in large subgroups of patients. In addition, the clinical course of the majority of patients treated with clopidogrel without either genetic testing or functional testing is excellent. Clinical judgment is required to assess clinical risk and variability in patients considered to be at increased risk. Genetic testing to determine if a patient is predisposed to poor clopidogrel metabolism (“poor metabolizers”) may be considered before starting clopidogrel therapy in patients believed to be at moderate or high risk for poor outcomes. This might include, among others, patients undergoing elective high-risk PCI procedures (e.g., treatment of extensive and/or very complex disease). If such testing identifies a potential poor metabolizer, other therapies, particularly prasugrel for coronary patients, should be considered. (Holmes et al., 2010).

American Academy of Neurology (AAN) 
The AAN published a position paper on the use of opioids for chronic non-cancer pain. Regarding pharmacogenetic testing, the guidelines state “genotyping to determine whether response to opioid therapy can/should be more individualized will require critical original research to determine effectiveness and appropriateness of use” (Franklin, 2014).

American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) Academy Laboratory Medicine Practice Guidelines 
AACC Academy issued laboratory medicine practice guidelines on using clinical laboratory tests to monitor drug therapy in pain management. Their guidelines have a total of 26 recommendations and seven expert opinions. Regarding pharmacogenetic testing for pain management, they stated in the recommendation #20 (Level A, II) that: “While the current evidence in the literature doesn’t support routine genetic testing for all pain management patients, it should be considered to predict or explain variant pharmacokinetics, and/ or pharmacodynamics of specific drugs as evidenced by repeated treatment failures, and/or adverse drug reactions/toxicity” (AACC, 2017).

American Family Physician (AAFP) 
The AAFP has published guidelines on pharmacogenetics: using genetic information to guide drug therapy. CPIC guidelines are cited for many medication/allele combinations in this article. The recommendations by the AAFP are listed in the table below taken from Chang et al. (2015):

Allele

Medications

Test Results and Clinical Implications

Comments

CYP2D6

Codeine, hydrocodone, oxycodone, tramadol

Ultrarapid metabolizer: Avoid codeine because of potential for toxicity

Poor metabolizer: Avoid codeine and possibly tramadol because of possible lack of effectiveness

CPIC guidance limits genotype-guided dosing recommendations to codeine.

Alternative analgesics not affected by CYP2D6 variability include morphine, oxymorphone, and nonopioid analgesics.

Oxycodone may also have reduced effectiveness in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers.

CYP2C19

Clopidogrel (Plavix)

Intermediate metabolizer: Use alternative antiplatelet therapy if no contraindications

Poor metabolizer: Use alternative antiplatelet therapy if no contraindications

Clopidogrel prescribing information states that CYP2C19 tests can be used as an aid to determine therapeutic strategy in patients with acute coronary syndromes who are undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

CPIC guidance limits genotype-guided dosing recommendations to patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention for acute coronary syndromes (excluding medical management of acute coronary syndromes, stroke, and peripheral artery disease).

ACCF/AHA guidelines state that genotyping may be considered in patients with unstable angina/non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (or after percutaneous coronary intervention for acute coronary syndromes) if test results could alter management.

Alternative antiplatelet therapy not affected by CYP2C19 variability includes prasugrel (Effient) and ticagrelor (Brilinta).

CYP2C19

Amitriptyline

Poor metabolizer: Consider 50% reduction in recommended starting dose

CPIC guidance is available for CYP2D6- and CYP2C19-genotype guided tricyclic antidepressant therapy.

Although limited data exist for other tricyclic antidepressants, most supporting evidence of clinically relevant gene-drug effects is for amitriptyline and nortriptyline (Pamelor).

CYP2C19

Citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro)

Ultrarapid metabolizer: Consider alternative

Poor metabolizer: Consider 50% starting dose reduction and titrate to response, or use alternative

CPIC guidance is available for CYP2C19-genotype guided citalopram and escitalopram therapy.

FDA label for citalopram states that 20 mg per day is the maximum recommended dosage for patients older than 60 years, patients with hepatic impairment, and CYP2C19 poor metabolizers or patients taking cimetidine (Tagamet) or another CYP2C19 inhibitor.

CYP2C19

Sertraline (Zoloft)

Ultrarapid metabolizer: If patient does not respond to recommended dose, consider alternative

Poor metabolizer: Consider 50% dose reduction or alternative

CPIC guidance is available for CYP2C19-genotype guided sertraline therapy.

CYP2D6

Amitriptyline, nortriptyline

Ultrarapid metabolizer: Avoid because of possible lack of effectiveness

Poor metabolizer: Avoid because of possible adverse effects; if use is warranted, consider 50% reduction in recommended starting dose

CPIC guidance is available for CYP2D6- and CYP2C19-genotype guided tricyclic antidepressant therapy.

Although limited data exist for other tricyclic antidepressants, most supporting evidence of clinically relevant gene-drug effects is for amitriptyline and nortriptyline.

CYP2D6

Aripiprazole (Abilify)

Poor metabolizer: Decrease dose

Quality of supporting evidence is classified as low by PharmGKB

FDA label for aripiprazole states that in poor metabolizers, the usual dose should initially be reduced to 50% and then adjusted to achieve a favorable clinical response; in poor metabolizers receiving a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, the usual dose should be reduced to 25%.

CYP2D6

Atomoxetine (Strattera)

Poor metabolizer: Adjust dose

Quality of supporting evidence is classified as moderate (Level 2a) by PharmGKB.

FDA label for atomoxetine states that in poor metabolizers, the initial dosage should be 0.5 mg per kg per day and then increased to the the usual target dosage of 1.2 mg per kg per day only if symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks and the initial dose is well tolerated.

CYP2D6

Paroxetine (Paxil)

Ultrarapid metabolizer: Select alternative because of possible lack of effectiveness.

Poor metabolizer: Select alternative or if use is warranted, consider 50% starting dose reduction

CPIC guidance is available for CYP2D6-genotype guided paroxetine therapy.

Dutch Pharmacogenetics Working Group (DPWG) 
The DPWG has published guidelines for the gene-drug interaction of DPYD and fluoropyrimidines. Conclusions state that “four variants have sufficient evidence to be implemented into clinical care: DPYD*2A (c.1905+1G>A, IVS14+1G>A), DPYD*13 (c.1679T>G), c.2846A>T and c.1236G>A (in linkage disequilibrium with c.1129–5923C>G). The current guideline only reports recommendations for these four variants; no recommendations are provided for other variants in DPYD or other genes” (Lunenburg et al., 2020).

Food and Drug Administration 
The FDA published several tables of pharmacogenetic associations with “sufficient scientific evidence to suggest that subgroups of patients with certain genetic variants, or genetic variant-inferred phenotypes (i.e., affected subgroup in the table below), are likely to have altered drug metabolism, and in certain cases, differential therapeutic effects, including differences in risks of adverse events”. 

The table below lists associations “for which the data support therapeutic management recommendations” (FDA, 2022).

Drug

Gene

Affected Subgroups

Description of Gene-Drug Interaction

Abacavir

HLA-B

*57:01 allele positive

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (hypersensitivity reactions). Do not use abacavir in patients positive for HLA-B*57:01.

Abrocitinib

CYP2C19

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and may result in higher adverse reaction risk. Dosage adjustment is recommended. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Amifampridine

NAT2

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Use lowest recommended starting dosage and monitor for adverse reactions. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Amifampridine Phosphate

NAT2

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Use lowest recommended starting dosage (15 mg/day) and monitor for adverse reactions.

Amphetamine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

May affect systemic concentrations and adverse reaction risk. Consider lower starting dosage or use alternative agent.

Aripiprazole

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Dosage adjustment is recommended. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Aripiprazole Lauroxil

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Dosage adjustment is recommended. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Atomoxetine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Adjust titration interval and increase dosage if tolerated. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Azathioprine

TPMT and/or NUDT15

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Alters systemic active metabolite concentration and dosage requirements. Results in higher adverse reaction risk (myelosuppression). Consider alternative therapy in poor metabolizers. Dosage reduction is recommended in intermediate metabolizers for NUDT15 or TPMT. Intermediate metabolizers for both genes may require more substantial dosage reductions. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Belinostat

UGT1A1

*28/*28 (poor metabolizers)

May result in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Reduce starting dose to 750 mg/m2 in poor metabolizers.

Belzutifan

CYP2C19 and/or UGT2B17

Poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and may result in higher adverse reaction risk (anemia, hypoxia). Monitor patients who are poor metabolizers for both genes for adverse reactions.

Brexpiprazole

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Dosage adjustment is recommended. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Brivaracetam

CYP2C19

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Consider dosage reductions in poor metabolizers.

Capecitabine

DPYD

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (severe, life-threatening, or fatal toxicities). No dosage has proven safe in poor metabolizers, and insufficient data are available to recommend a dosage in intermediate metabolizers. Withhold or discontinue in the presence of early-onset or unusually severe toxicity.

Carbamazepine

HLA-B

*15:02 allele positive

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (severe skin reactions). Avoid use unless potential benefits outweigh risks and consider risks of alternative therapies. Patients positive for HLA-B*15:02 may be at increased risk of severe skin reactions with other drugs that are associated with a risk of Stevens Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN). Genotyping is not a substitute for clinical vigilance.

Celecoxib

CYP2C9

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Reduce starting dose to half of the lowest recommended dose in poor metabolizers. Consider alternative therapy in patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

Citalopram

CYP2C19

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and adverse reaction risk (QT prolongation). The maximum recommended dose is 20 mg.

Clobazam

CYP2C19

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic active metabolite concentrations. Poor metabolism results in higher adverse reaction risk. Dosage adjustment is recommended. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Clopidogrel

CYP2C19

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in lower systemic active metabolite concentrations, lower antiplatelet response, and may result in higher cardiovascular risk. Consider use of another platelet P2Y12 inhibitor.

Clozapine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Dosage reductions may be necessary.

Codeine

CYP2D6

ultrarapid metabolizers

Results in higher systemic active metabolite concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (life-threatening respiratory depression and death). Codeine is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.

Deutetrabenazine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and adverse reaction risk (QT prolongation). The maximum recommended dosage should not exceed 36 mg (maximum single dose of 18 mg).

Dronabinol

CYP2C9

intermediate or poor metabolizers

May result in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Monitor for adverse reactions.

Eliglustat

CYP2D6

ultrarapid, normal, intermediate, or poor metabolizers

Alters systemic concentrations, effectiveness, and adverse reaction risk (QT prolongation). Indicated for normal, intermediate, and poor metabolizer patients. Ultrarapid metabolizers may not achieve adequate concentrations to achieve a therapeutic effect. The recommended dosages are based on CYP2D6 metabolizer status. Coadministration with strong CYP3A inhibitors is contraindicated in intermediate and poor CYP2D6 metabolizers. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Erdafitinib

CYP2C9

*3/*3 (poor metabolizers)

May result in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Monitor for adverse reactions.

Flibanserin

CYP2C19

poor metabolizers

May result in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Monitor patients for adverse reactions.

Flurbiprofen

CYP2C9

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Use a reduced dosage.

Fluorouracil

DPYD

intermediate or poor metabolizer

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (severe, life-threatening, or fatal toxicities). No dosage has proven safe in poor metabolizers and insufficient data are available to recommend a dosage in intermediate metabolizers. Withhold or discontinue in the presence of early-onset or unusually severe toxicity.

Fosphenytoin

CYP2C9

Intermediate or poor metabolizers

May result in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (central nervous system toxicity). Consider starting at the lower end of the dosage range and monitor serum concentrations. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations. Carriers of CYP2C9*3 alleles may be at increased risk of severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Consider avoiding fosphenytoin as an alternative to carbamazepine in patients who are CYP2C9*3 carriers. Genotyping is not a substitute for clinical vigilance and patient management.

Fosphenytoin

HLA-B

*15:02 allele positive

May result in higher adverse reaction risk (severe cutaneous reactions). Patients positive for HLA-B*15:02 may be at increased risk of Stevens Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN). Consider avoiding fosphenytoin as an alternative to carbamazepine in patients who are positive for HLA-B*15:02. Genotyping is not a substitute for clinical vigilance and patient management.

Gefitinib

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Monitor for adverse reactions.

Iloperidone

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (QT prolongation). Reduce dosage by 50%.

Irinotecan

UGT1A1

*28/*28 (poor metabolizers)

Results in higher systemic active metabolite concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (severe neutropenia). Consider reducing the starting dosage by one level and modify the dosage based on individual patient tolerance.

Lofexidine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. Monitor for orthostatic hypotension and bradycardia.

Meclizine

CYP2D6

ultrarapid, intermediate, or poor metabolizers

May affect systemic concentrations. Monitor for adverse reactions and clinical effect.

Meloxicam

CYP2C9

Poor metabolizers or *3 carriers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Consider dose reductions in poor metabolizers. Monitor patients for adverse reactions.

Metoclopramide

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk. The recommended dosage is lower. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Mercaptopurine

TPMT and/or NUDT15

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Alters systemic active metabolite concentration and dosage requirements. Results in higher adverse reaction risk (myelosuppression). Initial dosages should be reduced in poor metabolizers; poor metabolizers generally tolerate 10% or less of the recommended dosage. Intermediate metabolizers may require dosage reductions based on tolerability. Intermediate metabolizers for both genes may require more substantial dosage reductions. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Mivacurium

BCHE

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (prolonged neuromuscular blockade). Avoid use in poor metabolizers.

Nateglinide

CYP2C9

Poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and may result in higher adverse reaction risk (hypoglycemia). Dosage reduction is recommended. Increase monitoring frequency for adverse reactions. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Oliceridine

CYP2D6

Poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (respiratory depression and sedation). May require less frequent dosing.

Pantoprazole

CYP2C19

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Consider dosage reduction in children who are poor metabolizers. No dosage adjustment is needed for adult patients who are poor metabolizers.

Phenytoin

CYP2C9

Intermediate or poor metabolizers

May result in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (central nervous system toxicity). Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations. Carriers of CYP2C9*3 alleles may be at increased risk of severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Consider avoiding phenytoin as an alternative to carbamazepine in patients who are CYP2C9*3 carriers. Genotyping is not a substitute for clinical vigilance and patient management.

Phenytoin

HLA-B

*15:02 allele positive

May result in higher adverse reaction risk (severe cutaneous reactions). Patients positive for HLA-B*15:02 may be at increased risk of Stevens Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN). Consider avoiding phenytoin as an alternative to carbamazepine in patients who are positive for HLA-B*15:02. Genotyping is not a substitute for clinical vigilance and patient management.

Pimozide

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Dosages should not exceed 0.05 mg/kg in children or 4 mg/day in adults who are poor metabolizers and dosages should not be increased earlier than 14 days.

Piroxicam

CYP2C9

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Consider reducing dosage in poor metabolizers.

Pitolisant

CYP2D6

Poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Use lowest recommended starting dosage. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Propafenone

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (arrhythmia). Avoid use in poor metabolizers taking a CYP3A4 inhibitor.

Sacituzumab Govitecan-hziy

UGT1A1

*28/*28 (poor metabolizers)

May result in higher systemic concentrations and adverse reaction risk (neutropenia). Monitor for adverse reactions and tolerance to treatment.

Siponimod

CYP2C9

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. Adjust dosage based on genotype. Do not use in patients with CYP2C9 *3/*3 genotype. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Succinylcholine

BCHE

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (prolonged neuromuscular blockade). Avoid use in poor metabolizers. May administer test dose to assess sensitivity and administer cautiously via slow infusion.

Tacrolimus

CYP3A5

intermediate or normal metabolizers

Results in lower systemic concentrations and lower probability of achieving target concentrations. Measure drug concentrations and adjust dosage based on trough whole blood tacrolimus concentrations.

Tetrabenazine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. The maximum recommended single dose is 25 mg and should not exceed 50 mg/day.

Thioguanine

TPMT and/or NUDT15

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Alters systemic active metabolite concentration and dosage requirements. Results in higher adverse reaction risk (myelosuppression). Initial dosages should be reduced in poor metabolizers; poor metabolizers generally tolerate 10% or less of the recommended dosage. Intermediate metabolizers may require dosage reductions based on tolerability. Intermediate metabolizers for both genes may require more substantial dosage reductions. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations.

Thioridazine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (QT prolongation). Predicted effect based on experience with CYP2D6 inhibitors. Contraindicated in poor metabolizers.

Tramadol

CYP2D6

Ultrarapid metabolizers

Results in higher systemic and breast milk active metabolite concentrations, which may result in respiratory depression and death. Contraindicated in children under 12 and in adolescents following tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.

Valbenazine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic active metabolite concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (QT prolongation). Dosage reductions may be necessary.

Venlafaxine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Alters systemic parent drug and metabolite concentrations. Consider dosage reductions.

Vortioxetine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations. The maximum recommended dose is 10 mg.

Warfarin

CYP2C9

intermediate or poor metabolizers

Alters systemic concentrations and dosage requirements. Select initial dosage, taking into account clinical and genetic factors. Monitor and adjust dosages based on INR.

Warfarin

CYP4F2

V433M variant carriers

May affect dosage requirements. Monitor and adjust doses based on INR.

Warfarin

VKORC1

-1639G>A variant carriers

Alters dosage requirements. Select initial dosage, taking into account clinical and genetic factors. Monitor and adjust dosages based on INR.

The table below lists associations “for which the data indicate a potential impact on safety or response” (FDA, 2022).

Drug

Gene

Affected Subgroups

Description of Gene-Drug Interaction

Allopurinol

HLA-B

*58:01 allele positive

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (severe skin reactions).

Carbamazepine

HLA-A

*31:01 allele positive

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (severe skin reactions). Consider risk and benefit of carbamazepine use in patients positive for HLA-A*31:01. Genotyping is not a substitute for clinical vigilance.

Carvedilol

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (dizziness).

Cevimeline

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

May result in higher adverse reaction risk. Use with caution.

Codeine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in lower systemic active metabolite concentrations and may result in reduced efficacy.

Efavirenz

CYP2B6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (QT prolongation).

Isoniazid

Nonspecific (NAT)

poor metabolizers

May result in higher systemic concentrations and adverse reaction risk.

Lapatinib

HLA-DRB1

*07:01 allele positive

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (hepatotoxicity). Monitor liver function tests regardless of genotype.

Lapatinib

HLA-DQA1

*02:01 allele positive

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (hepatotoxicity). Monitor liver function tests regardless of genotype.

Mavacamten

CYP2C19

Intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and may have higher adverse reaction risk (heart failure). Dosage is based on individual response. The dose titration and monitoring schedule accounts for differences due to CYP2C19 genetic variation, so adjustments based on CYP2C19 genotype are not necessary. Refer to FDA labeling for specific dosing recommendations and monitoring.

Nilotinib

UGT1A1

*28/*28 (poor metabolizers)

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (hyperbilirubinemia).

Oxcarbazepine

HLA-B

*15:02 allele positive

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (severe skin reactions). Patients positive for HLA-B*15:02 may be at increased risk of severe skin reactions with other drugs that are associated with a risk of Stevens Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN). Genotyping is not a substitute for clinical vigilance.

Pazopanib

HLA-B

*57:01 allele positive

May result in higher adverse reaction risk (liver enzyme elevations). Monitor liver function tests regardless of genotype.

Pazopanib

UGT1A1

*28/*28 (poor metabolizers)

Results in higher adverse reaction risk (hyperbilirubinemia).

Perphenazine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk.

Procainamide

Nonspecific (NAT)

poor metabolizers

Alters systemic parent drug and metabolite concentrations. May result in higher adverse reaction risk.

Simvastatin

SLCO1B1

521 TC or 521 CC (intermediate or poor function transporters)

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (myopathy). The risk of adverse reaction (myopathy) is higher for patients on 80 mg than for those on lower doses.

Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim

Nonspecific (NAT)

poor metabolizers

May result in higher adverse reaction risk.

Sulfasalazine

Nonspecific (NAT)

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic metabolite concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk.

Tolterodine

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and higher adverse reaction risk (QT prolongation).

Tramadol

CYP2D6

poor metabolizers

Results in lower systemic active metabolite concentrations and may result in reduced efficacy.

Voriconazole

CYP2C19

Intermediate or poor metabolizers

Results in higher systemic concentrations and may result in higher adverse reaction risk.

The International Society of Psychiatric Genetics 
The International Society of Psychiatric Genetics (ISPG) released recommendations on the use of pharmacogenetic testing to guide psychiatric treatment. ISPG recommends that pharmacogenetic testing should be used as a decision-support tool. HLA-A and HLA-B testing is recommended before the use of carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine. CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 testing would be beneficial for those who experienced an inadequate response or adverse reaction to a previous antidepressant or antipsychotic medication (ISPG, 2019). 

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 
AACAP does not recommend the use of pharmacogenetic testing to select psychotropic medications for children and adolescents (AACAP, 2020)

Association for Molecular Pathology PGx Working Group (AMP) 
AMP released clinical practice guidelines to define a minimum set of CYP2C19 allele variants that should be included in the pharmacogenomic genotyping assay. Tier 1 represents alleles that have been shown to affect drug response and should be included, while Tier 2 represents alleles which meet at least one but not all the criteria for inclusion in Tier 1 and are considered optional for inclusion in expanded clinical genotyping panels. Those in Tier 1 include alleles *2, *3, and *17. The following CYP2C19 alleles were recommended as Tier 2: *4A, *4B, *5, *6, *7, *8, *9, *10, and *35 (Pratt et al., 2018). Regarding CYP2C9 variant alleles, Tier 1 alleles include CYP2C9 *2, *3, *5, *6, *8, and *11. The following CYP2C9 alleles are recommended for inclusion in Tier 2: CYP2C9*12, *13, and *15 (Pratt et al., 2019). For testing genes and alleles specific to warfarin, AMP recommends including VKORC1 c.-1639G>A in Tier 1 and VKORC1 c.196G>A and c.106G>A in Tier 2 (Pratt et al., 2020). In a joint recommendation endorsed by the AMP, College of American Pathologists, Dutch Pharmacogenetics Working Group of the Royal Dutch Pharmacists Association, and the European Society for Pharmacogenomics and Personalized Therapy, CYP2D6 variant alleles were elucidated. Tier 1 alleles include CYP2D6 *2 to *6, *9, *10, *17, *29, and *41. Tier 2 CYP2D6 alleles include CYP2D6 *7, *8, *12, *14, *15, *21, *31, *40, *42, *49, *56, and *59, and hybrid genes containing portions of CYP2D6 and CYP2D7 (Pratt et al., 2021). These recommendations should help to standardize testing and genotyping concordance among laboratories.

European Medicines Agency 
EMA released recommendations on DPD testing before treatment with fluorouracil, capecitabine, tegafur, and flucytosine. EMA recommends testing for the lack of DPD before starting cancer treatment with fluorouracil, capecitabine, or tegafur. Patients who completely lack DPD should not be given these medications. For patients with partial deficiency, the physician may consider beginning treatment at a lower dose and terminating treatment if severe side effects occur. These recommendations do not apply to fluorouracil medications used for skin conditions or flucytosine used for fungal infection (EMA, 2020).

References 

  1. AACAP. (2020). Clinical Use of Pharmacogenetic Tests in Prescribing Psychotropic Medications for Children and Adolescents. https://www.aacap.org/aacap/Policy_Statements/2020/Clinical-Use-Pharmacogenetic-Tests-Prescribing-Psychotropic-Medications-for-Children-Adolescents.aspx 
  2. AACC. (2017, 01/01/2017). Using Clinical Laboratory Tests to Monitor Drug Therapy in Pain Management Patients. https://www.aacc.org/science-and-practice/practice-guidelines/using-clinical-laboratory-tests-to-monitor-drug-therapy-in-pain-management-patients
  3. ACMG. (2007). Pharmacogenetic testing of CYP2C9 and VKORC1 alleles for warfarin. http://www.acmg.net/PDFLibrary/CYP2C9-VKORC1-Parmacogenetic-Testing.pdf
  4. Ahern, T. P., Hertz, D. L., Damkier, P., Ejlertsen, B., Hamilton-Dutoit, S. J., Rae, J. M., Regan, M. M., Thompson, A. M., Lash, T. L., & Cronin-Fenton, D. P. (2017). Cytochrome P-450 2D6 (CYP2D6) Genotype and Breast Cancer Recurrence in Tamoxifen-Treated Patients: Evaluating the Importance of Loss of Heterozygosity. Am J Epidemiol, 185(2), 75-85. https://doi.org/10.1093/aje/kww178 
  5. Aka, I., Bernal, C. J., Carroll, R., Maxwell-Horn, A., Oshikoya, K. A., & Van Driest, S. L. (2017). Clinical Pharmacogenetics of Cytochrome P450-Associated Drugs in Children. J Pers Med, 7(4). https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm7040014 
  6. Amstutz, U., Henricks, L. M., Offer, S. M., Barbarino, J., Schellens, J. H. M., Swen, J. J., Klein, T. E., McLeod, H. L., Caudle, K. E., Diasio, R. B., & Schwab, M. (2018). Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) Guideline for Dihydropyrimidine Dehydrogenase Genotype and Fluoropyrimidine Dosing: 2017 Update. Clin Pharmacol Ther, 103(2), 210-216. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpt.911