CYP2D6

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Cytochrome P450 2D6 (EC 1.14.14.-) (CYPIID6) (Cholesterol 25-hydroxylase) (Cytochrome P450-DB1) (Debrisoquine 4-hydroxylase) [CYP2DL1]

Publications[править]

Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Approach Can Successfully Predict Pharmacokinetics of Citalopram in Different Patient Populations.

A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model (PBPK) was built for citalopram using Simcyp-based absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion simulator. Various physicochemical properties of citalopram were obtained from the published literature. The in vitro-in vivo extrapolation method was used to predict clearance in humans from recombinant enzyme data. Tissue distribution was predicted using parameter estimation function to fit the developed model to the observed concentration-versus-time data using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling approach. The model was verified by comparing the PBPK-based predictions with the observed pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of citalopram in 26 clinical studies across a dose range of 10 to 60 mg. The predicted PK parameters of citalopram after intravenous dosing were within the -10% to 22% of the corresponding PK parameters obtained from the studies with quantified data sets. Most of the predicted PK parameters of citalopram after single-dose oral administration were within the 70%-130% range of the corresponding PK parameters obtained from observed data from 8 studies. After multidose oral administration, percentage error of C and AUC was between -21% and 25% and -31% and 21%, respectively. Most of the observed data were within the 5th and 95th percentile interval of the variability around the predicted plasma concentrations. With the established model, the PK profiles in geriatric populations, populations with cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 and/or 2D6 extensive metabolizers or poor metabolizers were predicted, and the predictions were in good agreement with the observed data. The model developed is robust to represent the absorption and disposition of citalopram and can predict the impact of patient covariates, such as age and genetic polymorphism of CYP2C19 and CYP2D6, on exposure of citalopram.


Keywords

  • citalopram
  • genetic polymorphism
  • geriatrics
  • physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling


Application of a physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for the prediction of mirabegron plasma concentrations in a population with severe renal impairment.

We previously verified a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for mirabegron in healthy subjects using the Simcyp Simulator by incorporating data on the inhibitory effect on cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and a multi-elimination pathway mediated by CYP3A4, uridine 5'-diphosphate-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 2B7 and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). The aim of this study was to use this PBPK model to assess the magnitude of drug-drug interactions (DDIs) in an elderly population with severe renal impairment (sRI), which has not been evaluated in clinical trials. We first determined the system parameters, and meta-analyses of literature data suggested that the abundance of UGT2B7 and the BChE activity in an elderly population with sRI was almost equivalent to and 20% lower than that in healthy young subjects, respectively. Other parameters, such as the CYP3A4 abundance, for an sRI population were used according to those built into the Simcyp Simulator. Second, we confirmed that the PBPK model reproduced the plasma concentration-time profile for mirabegron in an sRI population (simulated area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) was within 1.5-times that of the observed value). Finally, we applied the PBPK model to simulate DDIs in an sRI population. The PBPK model predicted that the AUC for mirabegron with itraconazole (a CYP3A4 inhibitor) was 4.12-times that in healthy elderly subjects administered mirabegron alone, and predicted that the proportional change in AUC for desipramine (a CYP2D6 substrate) with mirabegron was greater than that in healthy subjects. In conclusion, the PBPK model was verified for the purpose of DDI assessment in an elderly population with sRI.

MeSH Terms

  • Acetanilides
  • Adolescent
  • Adrenergic beta-3 Receptor Agonists
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Butyrylcholinesterase
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6 Inhibitors
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A Inhibitors
  • Desipramine
  • Drug Interactions
  • Female
  • Gemfibrozil
  • Glucuronosyltransferase
  • Humans
  • Itraconazole
  • Lorazepam
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Biological
  • Renal Insufficiency
  • Thiazoles
  • Young Adult
  • Zidovudine

Keywords drug-drug mirabegron, physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model, renal impairment, the Simcyp Simulator


[Use of Pharmacogenetic Information for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of an Antiarrhythmic Drug].

 Antiarrhythmic drugs require therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) to avoid adverse effects such as proarrhythmia. However, TDM is not necessarily used to adjust the dosage of antiarrhythmic drugs because there is a lack of information regarding the therapeutic range of the serum concentration and the selection of patients who require TDM. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of the pharmacogenetic information on the pharmacokinetics and drug response of flecainide, a class Ic antiarrhythmic drug with a sodium channel-blocking effect. A population pharmacokinetic analysis revealed that the CYP2D6 genotype was a determining factor of the age-related decline in flecainide clearance. Elderly patients show large interindividual variability of flecainide clearance because they have a more pronounced effect of the CYP2D6 genotype and require more frequent monitoring of serum flecainide concentrations. Carriers of an Asian-specific promoter haplotype B of the cardiac sodium channel gene (SCN5A) more frequently achieve clinically relevant flecainide efficacy even at lower concentrations. This suggests that the therapeutic range of serum flecainide concentrations is lower in SCN5A promoter haplotype B carriers than in the wild-type haplotype A homozygotes. The β1-adrenergic receptor Gly389 polymorphism decreases the antiarrhythmic efficacy of flecainide when co-administered with β-blockers. Carriers of Gly389 with co-administration of β-blockers may not achieve clinically relevant flecainide efficacy even when the serum flecainide concentrations are within the therapeutic range. These findings provide pharmacogenetic information for the effective utilization of TDM in antiarrhythmic drug therapy.

MeSH Terms

  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists
  • Aging
  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents
  • Asian Continental Ancestry Group
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Drug Interactions
  • Drug Monitoring
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Flecainide
  • Genotype
  • Haplotypes
  • Heterozygote
  • Humans
  • NAV1.5 Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel
  • Pharmacogenetics
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-1
  • Sodium Channel Blockers

Keywords

  • CYP2D6 genotype
  • SCN5A promoter haplotype
  • antiarrhythmic drug
  • flecainide
  • pharmacogenetics
  • therapeutic drug monitoring


Analysis of the variability of the pharmacokinetics of multiple drugs in young adult and elderly subjects and its implications for acceptable daily exposures and cleaning validation limits.

The elderly constitute a significant, potentially sensitive, subpopulation within the general population, which must be taken into account when performing risk assessments including determining an acceptable daily exposure (ADE) for the purpose of a cleaning validation. Known differences in the pharmacokinetics of drugs between young adults (who are typically the subjects recruited into clinical trials) and the elderly are potential contributors affecting the interindividual uncertainty factor (UF ) component of the ADE calculation. The UF values were calculated for 206 drugs for young adult and elderly groups separately and combined (with the elderly assumed to be a sensitive subpopulation) from published studies where the pharmacokinetics of the young adult and elderly groups were directly compared. Based on the analysis presented here, it is recommended to use a default UF value of 10 for worker populations (which are assumed to be approximately equivalent to the young adult groups) where no supporting pharmacokinetic data exist, while it is recommended to use a default UF value of 15 for the general population, to take the elderly into consideration when calculating ADE values. The underlying reasons for the large differences between the exposures in the young adult and elderly subjects for the 10 compounds which show the greatest separation are different in almost every case, involving the OCT2 transporter, glucuronidation, hydrolysis, CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP3A4 or CYP3A5. Therefore, there is no consistent underlying mechanism which appears responsible for the largest differences in pharmacokinetic parameters between young adult and elderly subjects.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Organic Cation Transporter 2
  • Pharmacokinetics
  • Risk Assessment
  • Uncertainty
  • Young Adult

Keywords

  • Acceptable daily exposure
  • Cleaning validation
  • Elderly
  • Pharmacokinetics


Impact of Ageing on Serum Concentrations of Risperidone and Its Active Metabolite in Patients with Known CYP2D6 Genotype.

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of ageing on serum concentrations of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone in patients with known CYP2D6 genotype. We included retrospective therapeutic drug monitoring data from 464 genotyped patients with measured serum concentrations of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone after oral administration. Patients were divided into two age subgroups, that is ≤65 (n = 396) and >65 years (n = 68), and dose-adjusted concentrations (C:D ratios) were compared using multiple linear regression analyses with CYP2D6 genotype and gender as covariates. Moreover, absolute concentrations and prescribed daily doses were compared between age subgroups by simple, univariate Mann-Whitney tests. Age had no effect on C:D ratio of risperidone (p > 0.4), but C:D ratios of 9-hydroxyrisperidone and risperidone 9-hydroxyrisperidone (total active moiety) were estimated to be 2.6 and 2.0 times higher in patients >65 versus ≤65 years (p < 0.001). Female gender and a CYP2D6 poor metabolizer (PM) genotype were also associated with significantly higher C:D ratio of the total active moiety (p < 0.01). Despite lower dosing in patients >65 versus ≤65 years (median 1.5 versus 3.0 mg/day, p < 0.0001), absolute concentration of the total active moiety did not differ between the age subgroups (median 52.5 versus 47.0 nmol/L, p > 0.6). In conclusion, ageing implies significantly increased dose-adjusted serum concentration of risperidone active moiety, and treatment intensity is not generally reduced by halving the oral dose in the elderly. Tolerability of risperidone therapy should therefore be closely monitored in older patients, and female CYP2D6 PMs >65 years might be a particularly vulnerable subgroup of adverse effects.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Alleles
  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Drug Monitoring
  • Female
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders
  • Middle Aged
  • Norway
  • Paliperidone Palmitate
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risperidone
  • Sex Factors
  • Young Adult


Steady-state serum concentrations of venlafaxine in patients with late-life depression. Impact of age, sex and BMI.

Diagnosis of late-life depression is given when depressive symptoms emerge in persons older than 65 years. Great care is needed when elderly patients receive psychopharmacotherapy due to altered pharmacokinetic status. As a consequence, age is considered to have a significant effect on serum concentrations of antidepressant drugs. The magnitudes of age-dependent changes, however, are uncertain. By utilizing a large therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) database, this cross-sectional study aimed to retrospectively assess pharmacotherapy in elderly patients in comparison with their younger counterparts, when treated with venlafaxine, which is widely used to treat late-life depression. In addition, the influence of sex and body mass index (BMI) was evaluated. Serum concentrations of venlafaxine and its active metabolite O-desmethylvenlafaxine requested during routine TDM in two University Medical Centers in Germany were analyzed. Patients with concomitant CYP2D6 inhibiting drugs as co-medication were excluded. In total, 1,417 samples were available for the analysis. Elderly patients had by average 42% higher dose-adjusted serum concentrations (ng/mL/mg) of the active moiety (venlafaxine plus O-desmethylvenlafaxine) than younger patients. In addition, our study demonstrated that the difference between age groups is independent of sex and BMI. However, age groups only explain 4.5% of the total dose-adjusted serum concentration variation of the venlafaxine active moiety. Dose adjustments for venlafaxine are recommended in patients aged 65 years or older, particularly in elderly female patients who are exceptionally vulnerable to high serum concentrations of venlafaxine. TDM is recommended during venlafaxine pharmacotherapy.

MeSH Terms

  • Academic Medical Centers
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age of Onset
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation
  • Body Mass Index
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Data Mining
  • Databases, Pharmaceutical
  • Depressive Disorder
  • Desvenlafaxine Succinate
  • Female
  • Germany
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Venlafaxine Hydrochloride
  • Young Adult


Impact of age on serum concentrations of venlafaxine and escitalopram in different CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 genotype subgroups.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of age on venlafaxine and escitalopram serum concentrations in various cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and CYP2C19 genotype subgroups. Serum concentration measurements from CYP-genotyped patients treated with venlafaxine (n = 255) or escitalopram (n = 541) were collected retrospectively from a therapeutic drug monitoring database. Patients were divided into three CYP2D6 (venlafaxine) or CYP2C19 (escitalopram) phenotype subgroups according to inherited genotype, i.e., poor metabolizers (PMs), heterozygous extensive metabolizers (HEMs), and extensive metabolizers (EMs), and subsequently distributed into three age groups, i.e., <40 (control), 40-65, and >65 years. The effect of age on dose-adjusted serum concentrations (i.e., nmol/L/mg/day) of venlafaxine and escitalopram in each of the phenotype subgroups was evaluated by separate multivariate mixed model analyses. In CYP2D6 PMs, the mean dose-adjusted serum concentration of venlafaxine was 8-fold higher in patients >65 years compared with those <40 years (p < 0.001). In comparison, the respective age-related differences in mean dose-adjusted serum concentrations of venlafaxine were much less pronounced in CYP2D6 HEMs and EMs (<2-fold differences between age groups). A similar genotype-related effect of age was not observed for escitalopram (<1.5-fold age differences in all CYP2C19 subgroups). This study suggests that the effect of age on serum concentration of venlafaxine is dependent on CYP genotype, in contrast to escitalopram. Thus, to prevent potential side effects, it might be particularly relevant to consider CYP2D6 genotyping prior to initiation of venlafaxine treatment in older patients.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation
  • Citalopram
  • Cyclohexanols
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2C19
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Female
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors
  • Venlafaxine Hydrochloride
  • Young Adult


Recent examples on the clinical relevance of the CYP2D6 polymorphism and endogenous functionality of CYP2D6.

The cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) belongs to a group of CYPs considered of utmost importance in the metabolism of xenobiotics. Despite being of only minor abundance in the liver, it is involved in the clearance of >25% of marketed drugs. Accordingly, CYP2D6 can be very efficiently inhibited by a couple of commonly used drugs such as some antidepressants, although induction by any drug has not been observed thus far. CYP2D6 was also one of the first enzymes for which a highly polymorphic expression could be shown leading to a widespread range of functionality, from a complete lack of a functional enzyme to overexpression due to multiplication of active alleles. A clear relationship between the CYP2D6 genotype and adverse events during treatment with CNS-active drugs such as codeine, antidepressants, or antipsychotics could be demonstrated. More recently, some new aspects emerged about the potential endogenous function of CYP2D6 in terms of behavior and brain disorders.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Brain
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Drug Interactions
  • Ethnic Groups
  • Female
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Obesity
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Pregnancy
  • Tissue Distribution


Age related changes in fractional elimination pathways for drugs: assessing the impact of variable ontogeny on metabolic drug-drug interactions.

The magnitude of any metabolic drug-drug interactions (DDIs) depends on fractional importance of inhibited pathway which may not necessarily be the same in young children when compared to adults. The ontogeny pattern of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes (CYPs 1A2, 2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C18/19, 2D6, 2E1, 3A4) and renal function were analyzed systematically. Bootstrap methodology was used to account for variability, and to define the age range over which statistical differences existed between each pair of specific pathways. A number of DDIs were simulated (Simcyp Pediatric v12) for virtual compounds to highlight effects of age on fractional elimination and consequent magnitude of DDI. For a theoretical drug metabolized 50% by each of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 pathways at birth, co-administration of ketoconazole (3 mg/kg) resulted in a 1.65-fold difference between inhibited versus uninhibited AUC compared to 2.4-fold in 1 year olds and 3.2-fold in adults. Conversely, neonates could be more sensitive to DDI than adults in certain scenarios. Thus, extrapolation from adult data may not be applicable across all pediatric age groups. The use of pediatric physiologically based pharmacokinetic (p-PBPK) models may offer an interim solution to uncovering potential periods of vulnerability to DDI where there are no existing clinical data derived from children.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Drug Interactions
  • Humans
  • Liver
  • Models, Biological
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations

Keywords

  • drug-drug interaction
  • ontogeny
  • pediatric


Pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic and pharmacogenetic aspects of drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

With the aging population and its rapidly increasing prevalence, dementia has become an important public health concern in developed and developing countries. To date, the pharmacological treatment is symptomatic and based on the observed neurotransmitter disturbances. The four most commonly used drugs are donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine and memantine. Donepezil, galantamine and rivastigmine are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors with different pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles. Donepezil inhibits selectively the acetylcholinesterase and has a long elimination half-life (t(1/2)) of 70 h. Galantamine is also a selective acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, but also modulates presynaptic nicotinic receptors. It has a t(1/2) of 6-8 h. Donepezil and galantamine are mainly metabolised by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and CYP3A4 in the liver. Rivastigmine is a so-called 'pseudo-irreversible' inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase. The t(1/2) of the drug is very short (1-2 h), but the duration of action is longer as the enzymes are blocked for around 8.5 and 3.5 h, respectively. Rivastigmine is metabolised by esterases in liver and intestine. Memantine is a non-competitive low-affinity antagonist of the NMDA receptor with a t(1/2) of 70 h. Its major route of elimination is unchanged via the kidneys. Addressing the issue of inter-patient variability in treatment response might be of special importance for the vulnerable population taking anti-dementia drugs. Pharmacogenetic considerations might help to avoid multiple medication changes due to non-response and/or adverse events. Some pharmacogenetic studies conducted on donepezil and galantamine reported an influence of the CYP2D6 genotype on the pharmacokinetics of the drugs and/or on the response to treatment. Moreover, polymorphisms in genes of the cholinergic markers acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, choline acetyltransferase and paraoxonase were found to be associated with better clinical response to acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. However, confirmation studies in larger populations are necessary to establish evidence of which subgroups of patients will most likely benefit from anti-dementia drugs. The aim of this review is to summarize the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of the four commonly used anti-dementia drugs and to give an overview on the current knowledge of pharmacogenetics in this field.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Alzheimer Disease
  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • Donepezil
  • Excitatory Amino Acid Antagonists
  • Galantamine
  • Humans
  • Indans
  • Memantine
  • Pharmacogenetics
  • Phenylcarbamates
  • Piperidines
  • Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate
  • Rivastigmine


Predictors of risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone serum concentration in children and adolescents.

Little is known about risperidone metabolism in a clinical sample, where polypharmacy is common. Such knowledge is important since several of its side effects are dose dependent. Medically healthy patients aged 7 to 17 years old treated with risperidone for at least 6 months were enrolled. Trough serum risperidone and 9-hydroxyrisperidone concentrations were measured. One hundred seven participants (92% males) were recruited, representing a heterogenous clinical group with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, disruptive behavior disorders, pervasive developmental disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, tic disorders, or psychotic disorders. Risperidone had been used at a mean dose of 0.03 mg/kg, for a mean 2.5 years, predominantly to treat irritability and aggression. Cytochrome CYP2D6 inhibitors were divided into prominent (fluoxetine, bupropion, and lamotrigine), intermediate (sertraline), and weak inhibition groups (citalopram or escitalopram). The concentrations of risperidone and its metabolite were strongly associated with the dose of risperidone and time since the last dose and, to a lesser extent, with male sex. In addition, risperidone concentration increased with pubertal stage (p < 0.05), while body mass index z-score (p = 0.001) predicted a higher 9-hydroxyrisperidone concentration. The use of CYP2D6 inhibitors was much more strongly associated with risperidone concentration (p < 0.0001) than with its metabolite's (p = 0.06). In chronically treated youths, the metabolism of risperidone depends on the stage of sexual development, whereas that of 9-hydroxyrisperidone varies with body fat. Moreover, CYP2D6 inhibitors more strongly affect risperidone metabolism than that of its metabolite. The clinical implications of these findings, in relation to efficacy and tolerability, deserve further investigation.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Aging
  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Body Mass Index
  • Child
  • Child Development Disorders, Pervasive
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6 Inhibitors
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Isoxazoles
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders
  • Paliperidone Palmitate
  • Polypharmacy
  • Psychotic Disorders
  • Pyrimidines
  • Risperidone
  • Sex Factors
  • Sexual Development


Developmental pharmacology of tramadol during infancy: ontogeny, pharmacogenetics and elimination clearance.

To illustrate the complex interaction between ontogeny, i.e., age-dependent maturation, genetic polymorphisms and renal elimination clearance during infancy, based on developmental disposition of intravenous tramadol during infancy. Tramadol (M) is metabolized by O-demethylation (cytochrome P450 [CYP] 2D6) to the pharmacodynamic active metabolite O-demethyl tramadol (M1). This metabolite is subsequently eliminated by renal route while M1 formation will in part depend on ontogeny, i.e., age-dependent activity and CYP2D6 polymorphisms. However, these pathways do not mature simultaneously. A pooled pharmacokinetic analysis of earlier reported time-concentration profiles in neonates and infants was performed with subsequent simulation of the impact of ontogeny, polymorphisms and renal elimination clearance during infancy. Tramadol plasma time-concentration profile changes with postmenstrual age. The highest metabolite concentrations occur in the 52-week infant, where M1 formation clearance (hepatic, CYP2D6) is already mature but metabolite elimination clearance (through glomerular filtration rate) is immature. The phenotypic observations might in part explain unanticipated (side-)effects of tramadol. In addition to the compound-specific clinical implications, it is important to stress that the maturational trends in the elimination processes described can be considered for other compounds (e.g., codeine) that undergo similar elimination routes.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Analgesics, Opioid
  • Child, Preschool
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Kidney
  • Models, Statistical
  • Pharmacogenetics
  • Tramadol


Influence of age, gender, and race on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of fesoterodine.

Fesoterodine, a new antimuscarinic agent for overactive bladder, undergoes immediate and extensive hydrolysis by nonspecific esterases to 5-hydroxymethyl tolterodine (5-HMT), the metabolite principally responsible for its antimuscarinic activity. Formation of 5-HMT does not require cytochrome P450 (CYP)-mediated metabolism, but its further metabolism and inactivation involves CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 isoenzymes. Subject age, gender, and race can play a key role in inter-subject variability in pharmacokinetics and thus efficacy and safety of drugs. This article examines the effects of age, gender, and race on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of fesoterodine. Data from two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trials in healthy subjects are presented: Study 1 investigated the effects of race (white vs. black men) and Study 2 investigated the effects of age (young vs. old men) and gender (elderly men vs. elderly women) on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of single doses of fesoterodine 8 mg. In both studies, the primary endpoints were area under the concentration-time curve up to the last sample (AUC0-tz) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of 5-HMT in plasma. Pharmacodynamic variables included spontaneous salivary secretion (Studies 1 and 2) and residual urine volume (Study 2 only). The two studies included 5 groups of 16 subjects each (randomized 3 : 1 to fesoterodine or placebo): white men aged 18 - 45 years, black men aged 18 - 45 years (Study 1); young white men aged 18 - 40 years, elderly white men aged > 65 years, and elderly white women aged > 65 years (Study 2). There were no clinically meaningful differences in the primary endpoints between white and black subjects or between young white men, elderly white men, and elderly white women. Mean AUC0-tz was 70.7 ng/ml x h in whites and 64.1 ng/ml x h in blacks; mean Cmax was 6.1 and 5.5 ng/ml in whites and blacks, respectively. Mean AUC0-tz in young white men, elderly white men, and elderly white women was 49, 48, and 54 ng/ml x h, respectively; mean Cmax in young white men, elderly white men, and elderly white women was 4.1, 3.8, and 4.6 ng/ml, respectively. Consistent with the anticholinergic pharmacology of fesoterodine, declines in salivary volume were observed in both studies, and elevations in residual urinary volume were observed, especially in elderly subjects, in Study 2. Fesoterodine was well tolerated, with common adverse events such as headache and dry mouth recognized as antimuscarinic class effects. Subject demographics, such as age, gender, and race, do not have a clinically meaningful effect on 5-HMT pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics after single-dose administration of fesoterodine 8 mg; thus, no dosage adjustment is required for fesoterodine based on age, gender, or race.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • African Continental Ancestry Group
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Area Under Curve
  • Benzhydryl Compounds
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Ethnic Groups
  • European Continental Ancestry Group
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscarinic Antagonists
  • Salivation
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Urodynamics
  • Young Adult


Association between the CYP2D6*4 polymorphism and depression or anxiety in the elderly.

5-methoxytryptamine (5-MT), a precursor of serotonin, is considered to be an endogenous substrate of cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6). Homozygous carriers of the variant allele CYP2D6*4 lack CYP2D6 enzyme activity. Relative to extensive metabolizers, these poor metabolizers may have lower baseline serotonin concentrations in various brain regions, and may be more prone to depression or anxiety. To test whether the CYP2D6*4/*4 genotype is associated with a predisposition to depression or anxiety disorders in the elderly. We conducted a cross-sectional study within the Rotterdam Study, a population-based cohort study, among persons aged 55 years or older, who were screened for depression and anxiety disorders at two consecutive examination rounds. Logistic regression was used to analyze the association between the CYP2D6*4 polymorphism and the risk of depression or anxiety disorders. The risk of major depression in CYP2D6*4/*4 was not significantly different from extensive metabolizers (OR = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.36-2.00; p = 0.72). Neither did we find an association between CYP2D6 genotype and minor depression (OR = 1.56; 95% CI: 0.69-3.52; p = 0.28). No increased risk of anxiety disorders was found (OR = 1.19; 95% CI: 0.68-2.09; p = 0.55). Variation in the CYP2D6 gene is not related to a predisposition to depression or anxiety disorders in the elderly.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Cohort Studies
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Depression
  • Female
  • Gene Frequency
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Polymorphism, Genetic


Covariates of tramadol disposition in the first months of life.

Data on contributors to between-individual variability in overall tramadol clearance and O-demethyl tramadol (M1) formation in preterm neonates and young infants are limited. A population pharmacokinetic analysis of tramadol and M1 was undertaken using non-linear mixed effects model. Covariate analysis included weight, postmenstrual age (PMA), postnatal age (PNA), creatinaemia, (cardiac) surgery, cardiac defect, and cytochrome (CYP)2D6 polymorphisms, classified by CYP2D6 activity score. In 57 patients (25-54 weeks PMA), 593 observations were collected. Tramadol clearance was described using a two-compartment, zero-order input, first-order elimination linear model. An additional compartment was used to characterize M1. Tramadol clearance at term age was 17.1 litre h(-1) (70 kg)(-1) (CV, 37.2%). Size (37.8%) and PMA (27.3%) contribute to this variability. M1 formation clearance (CL2M1, i.e. the contribution of M1 synthesis to M clearance) was 4.11 litre h(-1) (70 kg)(-1) (CV, 110.9%) at term age. Size and PMA were the major contributors to the variability (52.7%); the CYP2D6 activity score contributes 6.4% to this variability. Overall tramadol clearance estimates confirm earlier reports while CL2M1 variability is explained by size, PMA, and CYP2D6 polymorphisms. The CL2M1 is very low in preterm neonates, irrespective of the CYP2D6 polymorphism with subsequent rapid maturation. The slope of this increase depends on the CYP2D6 activity score. The current pharmacokinetic observations suggest a limited micro-opioid receptor-mediated analgesic effect of M1 in preterm neonates and a potential CYP2D6 polymorphism-dependent effect beyond term age.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Analgesics, Opioid
  • Creatine
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Premature
  • Models, Biological
  • Prospective Studies
  • Tramadol


A study of genetic (CYP2D6 and ABCB1) and environmental (drug inhibitors and inducers) variables that may influence plasma risperidone levels.

Risperidone (R) is metabolized to 9-hydroxyrisperidone (9-OHR) by cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6). The main objective of this naturalistic study was to investigate the variables associated with two plasma ratios: the plasma R:9-OHR concentration ratio and the total concentration-to-dose (C:D) ratio. These ratios were studied as continuous measures by linear regression analyses and as three dichotomous variables in logistic regression analyses: R:9-OHR ratio >1 (indicative of lack of CYP2D6 activity), C:D ratio >14 (indicative of diminished R elimination), and C:D ratio <3.5 (indicative of increased R elimination). Plasma R levels; genotypes for CYP2D6, CYP3A5; and ABCB1 genes, and co-medication, including CYP inhibitors and CYP3A inducers, were studied in 277 patients. Almost all CYP2D6 poor metabolizers (PMs) had an inverted R:9-OHR ratio (>1). Having a CYP2D6 PM phenotype was strongly associated with a C:D ratio >14 (OR=8.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]=2.0-32.7), indicating diminished R elimination. CYP2D6 ultrarapid metabolizers (UMs) did not exhibit an increased R elimination. Some ABCB1 (or MDR1) variants were significantly associated with increased R:9-OHR ratios and decreased C:D ratios, but the results were neither consistent nor robust. Taking CYP inhibitors was significantly associated with a C:D ratio >14 (OR=3.8; CI=1.7-8.7) and with an inverted R:9-OHR ratio. Taking CYP3A inducers was significantly associated with a C:D ratio <3.5 (OR=41.8; CI=12.7-138), indicating increased R elimination. Female gender and old age appeared to be associated with a lower R elimination. Our study indicated that the CYP2D6 PM phenotype may have a major role in personalizing R doses, whereas the CYP3A5 PM phenotype probably has no role. CYP inducers and inhibitors appear to be relevant to R dosing. New studies are needed, particularly to further assess the role of the CYP2D6 UM phenotype and ABCB1 variants in R pharmacokinetics.

MeSH Terms

  • ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B
  • ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily B, Member 1
  • Adult
  • Aging
  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6 Inhibitors
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Drug Interactions
  • Enzyme Induction
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Isoxazoles
  • Linear Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Organic Anion Transporters
  • Paliperidone Palmitate
  • Pyrimidines
  • Risperidone
  • Sex Factors


Ontogeny of dextromethorphan O- and N-demethylation in the first year of life.

The exponential increase in the number of drugs used to treat infant and childhood illnesses necessitates an understanding of the ontogeny of drug biotransformation for the development of safe and effective therapies. Healthy infants received an oral dose (0.3 mg/kg) of dextromethorphan (DM) at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 12 months of age. DM and its major metabolites were measured in urine. CYP2D6 genotype was determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Genotyping data indicated a strong correlation between CYP2D6 genotype and DM O-demethylation (beta=-0.638; 95% CI: -0.745, -0.532; P<0.001). CYP2D6 activity was detectable and concordant with genotype by 2 weeks of age, showed no relationship with gestational age, and did not change with post natal age up to 1 year. In contrast, DM N-demethylation developed significantly more slowly over the first year of life. Genotype and the temporal acquisition of drug biotransformation are critical determinants of a drug response in infants.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Alleles
  • Antitussive Agents
  • Biotransformation
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Dealkylation
  • Dextromethorphan
  • Female
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male


Effect of conjugated equine estrogens on oxidative metabolism in middle-aged and elderly postmenopausal women.

The effects of conjugated equine estrogens (CEE) 0.625 mg daily on cytochrome P450 (CYP) were quantified in 12 middle-aged and 13 elderly postmenopausal women at baseline and 6 months later. CYP phenotype was characterized by caffeine (CYP1A2), chlorzoxazone (CYP2E1), dapsone (CYP, N-acetyltransferase 2), dextromethorphan (CYP2D6), and mephenytoin (CYP2C19) metabolism. CEE significantly decreased CYP1A2 (caffeine metabolic ratio: 0.57 /- 0.20 before, 0.40 /- 0.20 after, P = .001) and significantly increased CYP2D6 (dextromethorphan/dextrorphan ratio: 0.0116 /- 0.0143 before, 0.0084 /- 0.0135 after, P = .022) metabolism. CEE had no overall effect on CYP2C19, CYP2E1, CYP-mediated dapsone metabolism, and N-acetyltransferase 2. The dextromethorphan metabolic ratio decreased only in the seniors. The dapsone recovery ratio decreased in the middle-aged group and increased in the seniors. CEE significantly influenced CYP1A2, CYP2D6, and CYP-mediated dapsone oxidative metabolism but not CYP2C19, CYP2E1, or N-acetyltransferase 2 metabolism in postmenopausal women. Age influenced CYP2D6 metabolism and dapsone hydroxylation.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Aryl Hydrocarbon Hydroxylases
  • Arylamine N-Acetyltransferase
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP1A2
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2C19
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2E1
  • Dapsone
  • Estrogens, Conjugated (USP)
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydroxylation
  • Metabolic Detoxication, Phase I
  • Middle Aged
  • Mixed Function Oxygenases
  • Postmenopause


CYP450, genetics and Parkinson's disease: gene x environment interactions hold the key.

The ecogenetic theory contends that most cases of Parkinson's disease (PD) result from the actions of environmental factors in genetically susceptible individuals on a background of normal ageing. This notion is supported by epidemiologic data; family history of PD and exposures to environmental toxins such as pesticides increase risk, while cigarette smoking reduces risk. As a result, polymorphic genes that code for metabolic enzymes have been considered as candidates for conferring differential risk for PD. Given their prominence in xenobiotic metabolism, the cytochrome P450 (CYP) genes have come under great scrutiny. The activity of CYP2D6 is largely determined by genetic variability and common sequence variants exist in human populations that lead to poor metaboliser (PM) phenotypes. These have been extensively studied as genetic risk factors for PD with inconsistent results. However, these studies have disregarded interactive effects (e.g. gene x environment interactions) despite the assertions of the ecogenetic theory. Data from our group and others suggest that the CYP2D6 PM genotype interacts with certain environmental factors such as pesticide exposure and cigarette smoking to confer differential risk for PD. Previous failure to consider such interactions might, in part, explain the inconsistencies observed in the CYP2D6 genetic risk-factor literature. Our data illustrate, using CYP2D6 as an exemplar, that it is crucial to consider both genetic and environmental factors, and their interactions, in any examination of risk factors for PD.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Environmental Exposure
  • Humans
  • Parkinson Disease
  • Phenotype


Bupropion for major depressive disorder: Pharmacokinetic and formulation considerations.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common psychiatric condition, with 6.6% of the adult population in the United States experiencing a major depressive episode during any given year. Depressed patients must receive adequate treatment to maximize the likelihood of clinical success. Bupropion hydrochloride, a noradrenergic/dopaminergic antidepressant, is available in 3 oral formulations: immediate release (IR) (given TID), sustained release (SR) (given BID), and extended release (XL) (given QD). Understanding the pharmacokinetic (PK) properties and formulations of bupropion can help optimize clinical use. : The aims of this article were to provide a review of the PK properties of bupropion and identify its various formulations and clinical applications to help optimize treatment of MDD. : In this review, data concerning PK trials/reports were collected from articles identified using a PubMed search. The search was conducted without date limitations and using the search terms bupropion, bupropion SR, bupropion XL, bupropion pharmacokinetics, bupropion metabolism, and bupropion drug interactions. Additional reports were selected from references that appeared in articles identified in the original search. In addition, data from studies summarized in product information and labeling were obtained. All available information, concentrating on studies in humans, pertinent to bupropion PK properties and/or formulations was included. : Bupropion is extensively metabolized by the liver (t(1/2), approximately 21 hours). Hydroxybupropion, the primary active metabolite (t(1/2), approximately 20 hours), is formed by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2B6. At steady state, C(max) of hydroxybupropion is 4- to 7-fold higher, and the AUC is approximately 10-fold greater, compared with those of the parent drug. Threohydrobupropion and erythrohydrobupropion (mean [SD] t(1/2) values, approximately 37 [13] and approximately 33 [10] hours, respectively), the other active metabolites of bupropion, are formed via nonmicrosomal pathways. Relative to bupropion, the C(max) values are approximately 5-fold greater for threohydrobupropion and similar for erythrohydrobupropion. Based on a mouse antitetrabenazine model, hydroxybupropion is approximately 50% as active as bupropion, and threohydrobupropion and erythrohydrobupropion are approximately 20% as active as bupropion. Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold and, therefore, concurrent administration with other agents that lower the seizure threshold should be undertaken cautiously. Potential interactions with other agents that are metabolized by CYP2B6 should be considered. In addition, bupropion inhibits CYP2D6 and may reduce clearance of agents metabolized by this enzyme. Absorption of the XL formulation is prolonged compared with the IR and SR formulations (T(max), approximately 5 hours vs approximately 1.5 and approximately 3 hours, respectively). Bupropion is dosed without regard to food. : Understanding the PK profile and formulations of bupropion can help optimize clinical use. Bupropion is metabolized extensively, resulting in 3 active metabolites. This metabolic profile, various patient factors (eg, age, medical illnesses), and potential drug interactions should be considered when prescribing bupropion. The 3 formulations-bupropion, bupropion SR, and bupropion XL-are bioequivalent and offer options to optimize treatment for patients with MDD.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation
  • Area Under Curve
  • Aryl Hydrocarbon Hydroxylases
  • Bupropion
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2B6
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Depressive Disorder, Major
  • Drug Interactions
  • Half-Life
  • Humans
  • Liver Failure
  • Metabolic Clearance Rate
  • Oxidoreductases, N-Demethylating
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Renal Insufficiency
  • Sex Factors
  • Smoking


Bioequivalence revisited: influence of age and sex on CYP enzymes.

The activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, which determine the rate of elimination of lipid-soluble drugs, demonstrates considerable interindividual variability. The extent to which age and sex influence CYP activity remains unclear in humans. Our objectives were to determine whether in vivo activity of selected CYP enzymes is affected by age or sex and to evaluate sex bioequivalence in a large sample size. We have assessed in vivo activity of the CYP1A2, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1, and 3A4 enzymes in 161 normal subjects (51% female subjects and 40% aged >50 years). After simultaneous administration of a cocktail of selective probes (caffeine, mephenytoin, debrisoquin [INN, debrisoquine], chlorzoxazone, and dapsone, respectively), phenotypic indices for metabolism of these drugs were used as measures of individual CYP activity. Sex bioequivalence analysis used the bootstrap method. There were no sex differences associated with CYP1A2 activity. A significant negative correlation (r = -0.572, P < .01) between enzyme activity and age was observed for CYP2C19, but there were no sex differences. CYP2D6 activity showed no dependence on age or sex. In contrast, CYP2E1 activity showed an age-associated increase (r = 0.393, P < .01), which developed earlier in life in male subjects compared with female subjects. These results were further supported by the sex bioequivalence analysis of CYP phenotypic activity, which revealed that sexes were equivalent with respect to CYP2C19 (90% confidence interval [CI], 0.874-1.04), CYP3A4 (90% CI, 0.95-1.176), and CYP2D6 (90% CI, 0.928-1.09) phenotype and just exceeded the 0.8 to 1.25 limits to be equivalent with respect to CYP2E1 (90% CI, 0.785-1.08) and CYP1A2 (90% CI, 0.736-1.03) phenotype. These observations suggest that the presence of selective mechanisms of regulation for individual CYP enzymes can be influenced by age and sex. However, we suggest that sex has a limited ability to explain intersubject variation of activity for these phenotypic measures of CYP enzyme activity.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Algorithms
  • Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Female
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Isoenzymes
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Statistical
  • Phenotype
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Therapeutic Equivalency


Clinical pharmacokinetics of drugs used to treat urge incontinence.

Urge incontinence (also known as overactive bladder) is a common form of urinary incontinence, occurring alone or as a component of mixed urinary incontinence, frequently together with stress incontinence. Because of the pathophysiology of urge incontinence, anticholinergic/antispasmodic agents form the cornerstone of therapy. Unfortunately, the pharmacological activity of these agents is not limited to the urinary tract, leading to systemic adverse effects that often promote nonadherence. Although the pharmacokinetics of flavoxate, propantheline, scopolamine, imipramine/desipramine, trospium chloride and propiverine are also reviewed here, only for oxybutynin and tolterodine are there adequate efficacy/tolerability data to support their use in urge incontinence. Oxybutynin is poorly absorbed orally (2-11% for the immediate-release tablet formulation). Controlled-release oral formulations significantly prolong the time to peak plasma concentration and reduce the degree of fluctuation around the average concentration. Significant absorption occurs after intravesical (bladder) and transdermal administration, although concentrations of the active N-desethyl metabolite are lower after transdermal compared with oral administration, possibly improving tolerability. Food has been found to significantly affect the absorption of one of the controlled-release formulations of oxybutynin, enhancing the rate of drug release. Oxybutynin is extensively metabolised, principally via N-demethylation mediated by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A isozyme. The pharmacokinetics of tolterodine are dependent in large part on the pharmacogenomics of the CYP2D6 and 3A4 isozymes. In an unselected population, oral bioavailability of tolterodine ranges from 10% to 74% (mean 33%) whereas in CYP2D6 extensive metabolisers and poor metabolisers mean bioavailabilities are 26% and 91%, respectively. Tolterodine is metabolised via CYP2D6 to the active metabolite 5-hydroxymethyl-tolterodine and via CYP3A to N-dealkylated metabolites. Urinary excretion of parent compound plays a minor role in drug disposition. Drug effect is based upon the unbound concentration of the so-called 'active moiety' (sum of tolterodine 5-hydroxymethyl-tolterodine). Terminal disposition half-lives of tolterodine and 5-hydroxymethyl-tolterodine (in CYP2D6 extensive metabolisers) are 2-3 and 3-4 hours, respectively. Coadministration of antacid essentially converts the extended-release formulation into an immediate-release formulation. Knowledge of the pharmacokinetics of these agents may improve the treatment of urge incontinence by allowing the identification of individuals at high risk for toxicity with 'usual' dosages. In addition, the use of alternative formulations (controlled-release oral, transdermal) may also facilitate adherence, not only by reducing the frequency of drug administration but also by enhancing tolerability by altering the proportions of parent compound and active metabolite in the blood.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Cholinergic Antagonists
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Drug Interactions
  • Humans
  • Parasympatholytics
  • Urinary Incontinence


[Effect of factors on plasma haloperidol concentration/dose ratio].

It has been known that the serum concentration of antipsychotics is varied according to individual case. There are several factors that may affect the plasma levels of antipsychotics; e.g., antipsychotic dose, body weight, interaction with other drugs, enzyme activity in the human liver, age and smoking. The enzyme cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) is an important factor affecting the plasma levels of antipsychotics, because CYP2D6 is involved in the metabolism of these drugs. In this paper, we review the effect of several factors on plasma haloperidol concentration.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Body Weight
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Interactions
  • Haloperidol
  • Humans
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Smoking


Rabeprazole: pharmacokinetics and pharmacokinetic drug interactions.

Rabeprazole is the most recently approved proton pump inhibitor in Germany. The substance has an absolute bioavailability upon oral administration of approximately 52% which is robust against food intake or administration of antacids. Maximal plasma concentrations are reached after approximately 3-4 h. Concentrations increase proportionally with the dose. Rabeprazole undergoes an almost complete, mainly non-enzymatic metabolism with renal elimination of the metabolites. CYP3A4 and CYP2C19 contribute to the fraction of metabolism mediated enzymatically. Elimination half-life is about 1 h. The extent of rabeprazole concentration increase by old age, poor metabolizer status for CYP2C19 and impairment of liver function is not greater than two-fold, impaired renal function does not affect the elimination. Even in patients with delayed elimination, no relevant accumulation of rabeprazole was observed upon long-term administration. In in vivo studies, rabeprazole had no noteworthy effect on the metabolism of other drugs. This statement however must be made with reservation because of shortcomings in published studies with respect to the methods used and presentation and because of lacking investigations about possible effects on the cytochrome P-450 enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2D6. A slight reduction in ketoconazole absorption and a moderate increase in digoxin concentrations should be taken into account for concomitant therapy, but is expected to be clinically relevant only in isolated cases. Based on these partially incomplete data, in summary it is to be expected that rabeprazole can be administered at a standard dose for the respective disease in almost any patient for the entire duration of therapy, and that usually no dose adjustment of other drugs is required when rabeprazole is coadministered.

MeSH Terms

  • 2-Pyridinylmethylsulfinylbenzimidazoles
  • Adult
  • Aging
  • Anti-Ulcer Agents
  • Benzimidazoles
  • Biological Availability
  • Child
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Drug Interactions
  • Female
  • Food-Drug Interactions
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Absorption
  • Male
  • Omeprazole
  • Rabeprazole


Human variability in polymorphic CYP2D6 metabolism: is the kinetic default uncertainty factor adequate?

Human variability in the kinetics of CYP2D6 substrates has been quantified using a database of compounds metabolised extensively (>60%) by this polymorphic enzyme. Published pharmacokinetic studies (after oral and intravenous dosing) in non-phenotyped healthy adults, and phenotyped extensive (EMs), intermediate or slow-extensive (SEMs) and poor metabolisers (PMs) have been analysed using data for parameters that relate primarily to chronic exposure (metabolic and total clearances, area under the plasma concentration time-curve) and primarily to acute exposure (peak concentration). Similar analyses were performed with the available data for subgroups of the population (age, ethnicity and disease). Interindividual differences in kinetics for markers of oral exposure were large for non-phenotyped individuals and for EMs (coefficients of variation were 67-71% for clearances and 54-63% for C(max)), whereas the intravenous data indicated a lower variability (34-38%). Comparisons between EMs, SEMs and PMs revealed an increase in oral internal dose for SEMs and PMs (ratio compared to EMs=3 and 9-12, respectively) associated with lower variability than that for non-phenotyped individuals (coefficients of variation were 32-38% and 30% for SEMs and PMs, respectively). In relation to the uncertainty factors used for risk assessment, most subgroups would not be covered by the kinetic default of 3.16. CYP2D6-related factors necessary to cover 95-99% of each subpopulation ranged from 2.7 to 4.1 in non-phenotyped healthy adults and EMs to 15-18 in PMs and 22-45 in children. An exponential relationship (R(2)=0.8) was found between the extent of CYP2D6 metabolism and the uncertainty factors. The extent of CYP2D6 involvement in the metabolism of a substrate is critical in the estimation of the CYP2D6-related factor. The 3.16 kinetic default factor would cover PMs for substrates for which CYP2D6 was responsible for up to 25% of the metabolism in EMs.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Benzhydryl Compounds
  • Cresols
  • Cyclohexanols
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Debrisoquin
  • Desipramine
  • Encainide
  • Ethnic Groups
  • Genetic Variation
  • Humans
  • Hydroxylation
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Kidney Diseases
  • Kinetics
  • Liver Diseases
  • Metabolic Clearance Rate
  • Metoprolol
  • Phenylpropanolamine
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Propafenone
  • Substrate Specificity
  • Tolterodine Tartrate
  • Venlafaxine Hydrochloride


Clinical pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cholinesterase inhibitors.

Cholinesterase inhibitors are the 'first-line' agents in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. This article presents the latest information on their pharmacokinetic properties and pharmacodynamic activity. Tacrine was the first cholinesterase inhibitor approved by regulatory agencies, followed by donepezil, rivastigmine and recently galantamine. With the exception of low doses of tacrine, the cholinesterase inhibitors exhibit a linear relationship between dose and area under the plasma concentration-time curve. Cholinesterase inhibitors are rapidly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, with time to peak concentration usually less than 2 hours; donepezil has the longest absorption time of 3 to 5 hours. Donepezil and tacrine are highly protein bound, whereas protein binding of rivastigmine and galantamine is less than 40%. Tacrine is metabolised by hepatic cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A2, and donepezil and galantamine are metabolised by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6. Rivastigmine is metabolised by sulfate conjugation. Two cholinesterase enzymes are present in the body, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). Tacrine and rivastigmine inhibit both enzymes, whereas donepezil and galantamine specifically inhibit AChE. Galantamine also modulates nicotine receptors, thereby enhancing acetylcholinergic activity at the synapse. These different pharmacological profiles provide distinctions between these agents. Cholinesterase inhibitors show a nonlinear relationship between dose and cholinesterase inhibition, where a plateau effect occurs. Cholinesterase inhibitors display a different profile as each agent achieves its plateau at different doses. In clinical trials, cholinesterase inhibitors demonstrate a dose-dependent effect on cognition and functional activities. Improvement in behavioural symptoms also occurs, but without a dose-response relationship. Gastrointestinal adverse events are dose-related. Clinical improvement occurs with between 40 and 70% inhibition of cholinesterase. A conceptual model for cholinesterase inhibitors has been proposed, linking enzyme inhibition, clinical efficacy and adverse effects. Currently, measurement of enzyme inhibition is used as the biomarker for cholinesterase inhibitors. New approaches to determining the efficacy of cholinesterase inhibitors in the brain could involve the use of various imaging techniques. The knowledge base for the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cholinesterase inhibitors continues to expand. The increased information available to clinicians can optimise the use of these agents in the management of patients with Alzheimer's disease.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Alzheimer Disease
  • Biological Availability
  • Carbamates
  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • Donepezil
  • Drug Interactions
  • Half-Life
  • Humans
  • Indans
  • Intestinal Absorption
  • Liver
  • Phenylcarbamates
  • Piperidines
  • Protein Binding
  • Rivastigmine
  • Tacrine
  • Tissue Distribution


The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor sertraline: its profile and use in psychiatric disorders.

The naphthylamine derivative sertraline is a potent and selective inhibitor of serotonin reuptake into presynaptic terminals. Sertraline has a linear pharmacokinetic profile and a half-life of about 26 h. Its major metabolite, desmethylsertraline does not appear to inhibit serotonin reuptake. Sertraline mildly inhibits the CYP2D6 isoform of the cytochrome P450 system but has little effect on CYP1A2, CYP3A3/4, CYP2C9, or CYP2C19. It is, however, highly protein bound and may alter blood levels of other highly protein bound agents. Sertraline is a widely used serotonin reuptake inhibitor that has been shown to have both antidepressant and antianxiety effects. Many clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy in depression compared with both placebo and other antidepressant drugs. Its efficacy has also been demonstrated in randomized, controlled trials of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. In short-term, open-label studies it has appeared efficacious and tolerable in children and adolescents and in the elderly, and data are positive for its use in pregnant or lactating women. Typical side effects include gastrointestinal and central nervous system effects as well as treatment-emergent sexual dysfunction; withdrawal reactions may be associated with abrupt discontinuation of the agent. The safety profile of sertraline in overdose is very favorable. Sertraline's efficacy for both mood and anxiety disorders, relatively weak effect on the cytochrome P450 system, and tolerability profile and safety in overdose are factors that contribute to make it a first-line agent for treatment in both primary and tertiary care settings.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders
  • Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors
  • Sertraline


Clinical pharmacokinetics of reboxetine, a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor for the treatment of patients with depression.

Reboxetine is a novel selective norepinephrine inhibitor that has been evaluated in the treatment of patients with depression. Reboxetine is a racemic mixture, and the (S,S)-( )-enantiomer appears to be the more potent inhibitor. However, the ratio of the areas under the concentration-time curves of the (S,S)-( )- and (R,R)-(-)-enantiomers in vivo is approximately 0.5. There is no evidence for chiral inversion. Differences in the clearances of the 2 enantiomers may be explained by differences in protein binding. The pharmacokinetics of reboxetine are linear following both single and multiple oral doses up to a dosage of 12 mg/day. The plasma concentration-time profile following oral administration is best described by a 1-compartment model, and the mean half-life (approximately 12 hours) is consistent with the recommendation to administer the drug twice daily. Reboxetine is well absorbed after oral administration. The absolute bioavailability is 94.5%, and maximal concentrations are generally achieved within 2 to 4 hours. Food affects the rate, but not the extent, of absorption. The distribution of reboxetine appears to be limited to a fraction of the total body water due to its extensive (>97%) binding to plasma proteins. The primary route of reboxetine elimination appears to be through hepatic metabolism. Less than 10% of the dose is cleared renally. A number of metabolites formed through hepatic oxidation have been identified, but reboxetine is the major circulating species in plasma. In vitro studies show that reboxetine is predominantly metabolised by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4; CYP2D6 is not involved. Reboxetine plasma concentrations are increased in elderly individuals and in those with hepatic or renal dysfunction, probably because of reduced metabolic clearance. In these populations, reboxetine should be used with caution, and a dosage reduction is indicated. Ketoconazole decreases the clearance of reboxetine, so that the dosage of reboxetine may need to be reduced when potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 are coadministered. Quinidine does not affect the in vivo clearance of reboxetine, confirming the lack of involvement of CYP2D6. There is no pharmacokinetic interaction between reboxetine and lorazepam or fluoxetine. Reboxetine at therapeutic concentrations has no effect on the in vitro activity of CYP1A2, 2C9, 2D6, 2E1 or 3A4. The lack of effect of reboxetine on CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 was confirmed by the lack of effect on the metabolism of dextromethorphan and alprazolam in healthy volunteers. Thus, reboxetine is not likely to affect the clearance of other drugs metabolised by CYP isozymes.

MeSH Terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Area Under Curve
  • Biological Availability
  • Female
  • Half-Life
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Absorption
  • Male
  • Metabolic Clearance Rate
  • Middle Aged
  • Morpholines
  • Protein Binding
  • Reboxetine
  • Stereoisomerism
  • Tissue Distribution


CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 activity in a large population of Dutch healthy volunteers: indications for oral contraceptive-related gender differences.

We examined a large database containing results on CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 activity of 4301 Dutch volunteers phenotyped in the context of various clinical pharmacology studies. The subjects were given 22 mg dextromethorphan, 100 mg mephenytoin and 200 mg caffeine. For CYP2D6, the dextromethorphan/dextrorphan metabolic ratios in urine samples taken for a subsequent 8 h were used. Dextromethorphan and dextrorphan were quantified by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography. For CYP2C19 similarly obtained (R)-mephenytoin and (S)-mephenytoin ratios were used. (S)-mephenytoin and (R)-mephenytoin were analysed and quantified by enantioselective capillary gas chromatography. In addition, CYP2C19 poor metabolizer (PM) subjects were reanalysed after acidic pre-treatment of urine samples to confirm the PM status. The investigated population mainly comprised Caucasian (98.9%) males (68%). The age ranged from 18 to 82 years. For CYP2D6, it was found that 8.0% of the subjects were PMs. The average metabolic ratio was 0.014 (0.033) for subjects who showed extensive metabolizing activity (EM) and 5.4 (7.6) for PM subjects. For CYP2C19, it was found that 1.8% of the subjects were PMs. The metabolic ratio was 0.162 (0.124) for EM subjects and 1.076 (0.040) for PM subjects. Within the EM group the metabolic ratio in females was significantly lower for CYP2D6 (-20%) and significantly higher for CYP2C19 ( 40%) compared with males. For PMs there was no such difference for CYP2D6 (P = 0.79) or CYP2C19 (P = 0.20). Oral contraceptive (OC) use significantly decreased the CYP2C19 activity by 68% for mephenytoin as compared to non-OC using females. For CYP2D6, the PM incidence (8.0%) is in accordance with literature data. The CYP2C19, PM incidence (1.8%) is low compared to reports from other European countries. For mephenytoin, the acidification procedure has been shown to be very important for the confirmation of CYP2C19 PMs. In EM females compared to EM males, CYP2D6 activity is increased and CYP2C19 activity is reduced. For CYP2C19 in particular this reduction is substantial and most pronounced in the age range from 18 to 40 years. For CYP2C19, the reduced activity is associated with the use of oral contraceptives.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Aryl Hydrocarbon Hydroxylases
  • Contraceptives, Oral
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2C19
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • European Continental Ancestry Group
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mixed Function Oxygenases
  • Netherlands
  • Phenotype
  • Sex Characteristics

Keywords

  • Biology
  • Clinical Research
  • Contraception
  • Contraceptive Methods
  • Developed Countries
  • Drugs
  • Enzymes
  • Enzymes And Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Europe
  • Family Planning
  • Metabolic Effects
  • Netherlands
  • Oral Contraceptives
  • Physiology
  • Research Methodology
  • Research Report
  • Treatment
  • Western Europe


Clinical implications of genetic polymorphisms and drug interactions mediated by cytochrome P-450 enzymes.

Hepatic oxidation is a major drug metabolising process and is carried out by the cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase system. This system consists of a variety of isoenzymes among which the cytochromes 1A2, 2C8, 2C9/10, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1 and 3A4 are involved in the oxidative metabolism of drugs. Interindividually, large differences in capacities are found. These differences are partly due to genetic constitution (genetic polymorphism, which has been proved to exist for CYP2D6 and CYP2C19) and partly due to environmental factors, among which the administration of interfering drugs can play a major role.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Drug Interactions
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Liver
  • Male
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Sex Characteristics


In vivo age-related changes in hepatic drug-oxidizing capacity in humans.

Very few studies have been carried out looking at how the effects of drugs and their toxicity in humans change during their lifespan (developing and ageing). The purpose of this study is to review the literature on the changes in probe-drug metabolism, classified by cytochrome P450 (P450 or CYP) at five stages in life: neonates < 4 weeks, infants < 12 months, children < 19 years, young/mature adults 20-64 years, and elderly adults > 65 years. The main probe drugs include caffeine and theophylline, whose metabolism is catalysed by CYP1A2, tolbutamide, phenytoin and ibuprofen, catalysed by CYP2C9, amitriptyline and nortriptyline, catalysed by CYP2C19, acetaminophen, catalysed by CYP2E1 and lidocaine, midazolam and terfenadine, catalysed by 3A3/4. From the published in vivo studies two different patterns of drug metabolism can be identified: (i) activity is low immediately after birth, increases, then peaks at the young/mature adult level and, finally, decreases in old age (drugs catalysed by CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6 and CYP3A3/4) and (ii) activity increases rapidly after birth to reach a level equivalent to that in the young/mature adult, then gradually decreases and finally decreasing faster in old age (drugs catalysed by CYP2E1). Further study of the changes in P450 with age is warranted to help prevent adverse reactions and to guide us in tailoring therapy better for the individual patient.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Humans
  • Isomerism


A review of developmental aspects of cytochrome P450.

This article surveys the development of human hepatic P450 cytochromes (CYPs) involved in xenobiotic metabolism from the fetus through the life span and explores possible clinical consequences of developmental issues. These hepatic P450 CYPs come "on line" at different times during fetal and infant development, and each one is discussed in that temporal sequence. CYP3A7. the major fetal hepatic cytochrome, is present during organogenesis, and it is involved in steroid metabolism. Variably expressed in some fetuses, CYP3A5 is also present at significant levels in about half of all children. In adults, CYP3A4 is the major functional member of the CYP3A subfamily. CYP1A1 is also present during organogenesis, and it metabolizes exogenous toxins, some of which are procarcinogens. CYP2E1 may be present in some second-trimester fetuses, and it may be involved in prenatal alcohol metabolism. After birth, hepatic CYP2D6 and CYP2C8/9 and CYP2C18/19 become active. Both CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 have genetic polymorphisms that can bring about differing capacities to metabolize exogenous drugs, including psychotropic drugs. CYP1A2 becomes active in the fourth to fifth postfetal months. It provides the best current examples of the importance of developmental changes in xenobiotic-metabolizing P450 CYPs through its metabolism of caffeine and theophylline in premature infants, neonates, and adolescents.

MeSH Terms

  • Aging
  • Animals
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Female
  • Fetus
  • Humans
  • Liver
  • Pregnancy
  • Xenobiotics


Genotypes for the cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 in human longevitY. Role of CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 in longevity.

To test whether some genotypes for CYP2D6 or CYP2C19 could contribute to longevity, we genotyped 241 Danish nonagenarians and centenarians for CYP2D6 and CYP2C19. For CYP2D6 we identified the alleles CYP2D6*1, CYP2D6*3 and CYP2D6*4 with allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The CYP2D6*5 alleles were identified with a long PCR method. For CYP2C19 we identified the alleles CYP2C19*1, CYP2C19*2 and CYP2C19*3 with an oligonucleotide ligation assay. The four alleles for CYP2D6 did not occur in Hardy-Weinberg proportions. The frequency of poor metabolism was slightly higher (10.2%) than expected [7.7%; odds ratio (OR) = 1.36 (0.75-2.40)]. The genotypes for CYP2C19 occur in Hardy-Weinberg proportions. The frequency of poor metabolism (3.8%) was not significantly different from a young control group [3.1%; OR = 1.21 (0.26-5.75)]. CYP2D6 could play a role in human longevity due to the lack of Hardy-Weinberg proportions. If CYP2D6 only plays a role in longevity by protecting the poor metabolizers from cancer, we should expect a rise in the frequency in these genotypes in Denmark from 7.7% among young adults to 10-11% among very old people. We found a frequency of poor metabolism of 10.2% in the very old group. CYP2C19 is - due to the occurrence of Hardy-Weinberg proportions and the expected number of poor metabolizers unlikely to contribute to human longevity.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Alleles
  • Aryl Hydrocarbon Hydroxylases
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2C19
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • DNA
  • Female
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Longevity
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mixed Function Oxygenases


Lack of association between human longevity and genetic polymorphisms in drug-metabolizing enzymes at the NAT2, GSTM1 and CYP2D6 loci.

In the present study, the possible role of genetic polymorphism of three drug-metabolizing enzymes, debrisoquine/sparteine hydroxylase (CYP2D6), glutathione S-transferase mu (GSTM1), and N-acetyltransferase (NAT2), as a putative genetic component of human longevity, was explored. A total of 817 DNA samples from a centenarian and a control (20-70 years) population was subjected to PCR-coupled RFLP methods. Subjects were genotyped for the CYP2D6*3 (A2637 deletion) and CYP2D6*4 (G1934A transition) alleles, for four mutations of NAT2 [namely, NAT2*5A (C481T), NAT2*6A (G590A), NAT2*7A (G857A), and NAT2*14A (G191A)], and for the presence or absence of GSTM1 gene deletion. No significant difference was found at these three loci between centenarian and control subjects with respect to allelic variant frequencies, genotype distributions or predicted phenotypes deduced from genotype combinations. By comparing the distribution of combined genotypes for the polymorphisms tested at the CYP2D6, NAT2, and GSTM1 loci, none of the predicted phenotypes concerning debrisoquine hydroxylase extensive-metabolizer or poor-metabolizer phenotypes, slow or fast N-acetylation capacities, and active or defective glutathione S-transferase, could be correlated with human longevity, alone or in combination.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Arylamine N-Acetyltransferase
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Female
  • Gene Deletion
  • Glutathione Transferase
  • Humans
  • Longevity
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mutation
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Xenobiotics


Effects of various factors including the CYP2D6 genotype and coadministration of flunitrazepam on the steady-state plasma concentrations of bromperidol and its reduced metabolite.

The effects of various factors, including the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 genotype and the coadministration of flunitrazepam, on the steady-state plasma concentrations (Css) of bromperidol and its reduced metabolite were studied in 62 schizophrenic inpatients receiving bromperidol 12 mg/day. By use of allele-specific PCR analysis, the wild type allele (CYP2D6*1A) and four mutated alleles causing either absent (CYP2D6*3, CYP2D6*4 and CYP2D6*5) or decreased (CYP2D6*10) CYP2D6 activity were identified. The means (ranges) of the Css of bromperidol and reduced bromperidol corrected to the median body weight were 7.2 (1.3-17.4) and 2.2 (0.4-8.9) ng/ml, respectively. Neither the Css of bromperidol nor that of reduced bromperidol significantly differed among the patients with no (n = 28), one (n = 30) and two mutated alleles (n = 4). The patients coadministered with flunitrazepam (n = 52) had significantly (P < 0.05) higher Css of bromperidol, but not reduced bromperidol, than those not (n = 10). Age, sex and smoking had no significant effects on the Css of these compounds. The present study thus suggests that the polymorphic CYP2D6 is not involved in the metabolism of bromperidol and reduced bromperidol to a major extent. The coadministration of flunitrazepam inhibits the metabolism of bromperidol, but age, sex and smoking do not affect it.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Anti-Anxiety Agents
  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Biotransformation
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Female
  • Flunitrazepam
  • Genotype
  • Half-Life
  • Haloperidol
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Schizophrenia
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Smoking


Delayed ontogenesis of CYP1A2 in the human liver.

The ontogenesis of CYP1A proteins was investigated in a human liver bank composed of fetal, neonatal and adult samples. In immunoblots, a polyclonal antibody raised against rat CYP1A1, cross-reacted with cDNA-expressed human CYP1A1 and CYP1A2. In adult liver microsomes, this antibody reacted with a single band identified as the CYP1A2 protein, while no CYP1A1 could be detected. CYP1A2 protein was absent in microsomes prepared from fetal and neonatal livers and its levels increased in infants aged 1-3 months to attain 50% of the adult value at one year. Enzymatic activities supported by CYP1A proteins were assayed on these samples. Methoxyresorufin demethylase supported by the CYP1A2 recombinant protein followed the same ontogenic profile as the CYP1A2 protein. In liver microsomes, the demethylation of imipramine was essentially due to CYP1A2 and to a smaller extent to CYP3A. In fetuses and early neonates, CYP3A proteins were responsible for the low demethylation of imipramine (3-4% of the adult activity) before the onset of CYP1A2 and the subsequent rise of activity. Immunodetection and enzymatic activities were consistent with the absence of CYP1A1 and the late expression of CYP1A2 in the human liver, compared to the early rise of CYP3A4, CYP2C, CYP2D6, and CYP2E1 proteins.

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Aging
  • Animals
  • COS Cells
  • Cell Line
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP1A2
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Fetus
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Liver
  • Microsomes, Liver
  • Rats
  • Recombinant Proteins
  • Substrate Specificity
  • Transfection


CYP2D6, NAT2 and CYP2E1 genetic polymorphisms in nonagenarians.

enzymatic polymorphisms affecting the metabolic disposition of xenobiotics may modulate the rate of activation or deactivation of carcinogens and other toxic environmental chemicals. Hence, these polymorphisms may influence the risk of suffering some types of cancer and other degenerative diseases that are incompatible with extreme longevity. to establish the distribution of three well known enzymatic polymorphisms that affect the CYP2D6, NAT-2 and CYP2E1 genes and the activity of their enzymatic gene products, involved in the disposition of many xenobiotics, in a group of nonagenarians and in much younger controls. the three genotypes were determined in 41 nonagenarians (10 males, mean age 92.2 years, range 90-98) free of known malignancies or neurodegenerative diseases. The control groups comprised 217 healthy volunteers (128 males, mean age 36.3 years; SD, 12.7) for the CYP2D6 and NAT2 genotypes and 137 (116 males, mean age 32 years; SD, 18.8) for the CYP2E1 genotype. after extraction of DNA from white blood cells, polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment polymorphism methods were used to identify the allelic variants of the three genotypes. we found no qualitative or quantitative difference in the mutations underlying the three genetic polymorphisms studied, nor in the expected enzymatic phenotypes. Instead, a close parallelism exists between advanced age and younger groups. longevity does not seem to be related to any special configuration of these three polymorphic traits. Comparisons with younger controls may be adequate when studying the distribution of these polymorphisms in diseases affecting old people. No genetically determined differences in the activation of drugs metabolized by these enzymes are to be expected in very old people.

MeSH Terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Alleles
  • Arylamine N-Acetyltransferase
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2E1
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic
  • Genotype
  • Humans
  • Inactivation, Metabolic
  • Longevity
  • Male
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Polymorphism, Genetic
  • Reference Values


Serotonin 5-HT2A receptor binding in platelets from healthy subjects as studied by [3H]-lysergic acid diethylamide ([3H]-LSD): intra- and interindividual variability.

In studies on platelet 5-HT2A receptor binding in patients with neuropsychiatric disorders, there has been a marked variability and a considerable overlap of values between patients and controls. The causes of the large variability in 5-HT2A receptor parameters is still unsettled. In the present study, we have quantified the intra- and interindividual variability of platelet 5-HT2A receptor binding in 112 healthy subjects and explored factors that may influence 5-HT2A receptor binding, using [3H]-lysergic acid diethylamide as radioligand. Age, gender, blood pressure, and metabolic capacity of the liver enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 did not influence Bmax and Kd values. Body weight and body mass index (BMI) showed a negative correlation with Kd (p = .04 and .03, respectively), but not with Bmax. Bmax was significantly lower in the light half of the year than in the dark half of the year (p = .001), and Kd was significantly lower in the fall than in the summer and winter (p < .001). In females, there was a significant increase in Bmax from week 1 to week 2 of the menstrual cycle (p = .03). Females taking contraceptive pills had significantly higher Kd than drug-free females in weeks 1 and 4 of the menstrual cycle (p = .04). This study shows that a number of factors should be taken into account when using platelet 5-HT2A receptor binding in studies of neuropsychiatric disorders.

MeSH Terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging
  • Blood Platelets
  • Blood Pressure
  • Cell Membrane
  • Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal
  • Female
  • Humans
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Lysergic Acid Diethylamide
  • Male
  • Menstrual Cycle
  • Middle Aged
  • Receptors, Serotonin
  • Seasons
  • Serotonin Antagonists
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists
  • Sex Characteristics


Population pharmacokinetics of nortriptyline during monotherapy and during concomitant treatment with drugs that inhibit CYP2D6--an evaluation with the nonparametric maximum likelihood method.

Therapeutic drug monitoring data for nortriptyline (674 analyses from 578 patients) were evaluated with the nonparametric maximum likelihood (NPML) method in order to determine the population kinetic parameters of this drug and their relation to age, body weight and duration of treatment. Clearance of nortriptyline during monotherapy exhibited a large interindividual variability and a skewed distribution. A small, separate fraction with a very high clearance, constituting between 0.5% and 2% of the population, was seen in both men and women. This may be explained by the recent discovery of subjects with multiple copies of the gene encoding the cytochrome-P450-enzyme CYP2D6, which catalyses the hydroxylation of nortriptyline. However, erratic compliance with the prescription may also add to this finding. A separate distribution of low clearance values with a frequency corresponding to that of poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 (circa 7% in Caucasian populations) could not be detected. Concomitant therapy with drugs that inhibit CYP2D6 resulted in a major increase in the plasma nortriptyline concentrations. This was caused by a decrease in nortriptyline clearance, whereas the volume of distribution was unchanged. The demographic factors age and body weight had a minor influence on the clearance of nortriptyline which was also unaffected by the duration of treatment.

MeSH Terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging
  • Body Weight
  • Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
  • Cohort Studies
  • Cytochrome P-450 CYP2D6
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
  • Drug Evaluation
  • Drug Synergism
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydroxylation
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Likelihood Functions
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mixed Function Oxygenases
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Nortriptyline
  • Sex Characteristics