Is your physician thinking of prescribing Camptosar (irinotecan)?
Are you concerned about Drug Sensitivity?
When patients with a certain genetic variation are given a standard
dose of irinotecan, they have a very high risk of severe or even
fatal neutropenia, a condition that drastically lowers the ability
of the body to fight off infection. This variation is called
UGT1A1*28 (UDP-glucuronosyltransferase) and it exists in about
10% of the U.S. population. In 2004, the FDA reviewed the data
on UGT1A1*28 and decided that this genetic change should be included
in the insert for irinotecan as a risk factor for severe toxicity.
The UGT1A1 Camptosar (irinotecan) DNA Drug Sensitivity Test is
considered appropriate for any patient planning to start Camptosar
(irinotecan) therapy as people with the variation need lower
starting doses.
The Testing Process
The process is simple. You can order testing directly if you have a physician prescription or your healthcare provider can request testing for you. We send a cheek swab collection kit with directions by mail. Samples are submitted using the enclosed return mailer and results are provided in ten days or less. Faster testing is available for an additional charge. Call a DNA testing consultant at (800) 523-3080 for details and to order, or request information to you or to your healthcare provider on your behalf, simply complete the request form.
References
Innocenti F, Undevia SD, Iyer L, et al. Genetic variants in the UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 gene predict the risk of severe neutropenia of irinotecan. J Clin.Oncol. 2004;22:1382-8
Beutler E, Gelbart T, Demina A. Racial variablitiy in the UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1 (UGT1A1) promoter: a balanced polymorphism for regulation of bilirubin metabolism? Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1998;95:8170-4.
http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic2/irinot_ids.htm
Disclaimer: Do not alter the dosage amount or schedule of any drug you are taking without first consulting a qualified healthcare professional.
The text presented on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is for your information only and may not represent your true individual medical situation. Do not hesitate to consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
Unless provided information expressly states that is was created by an MD or PharmD or cites another specific source, it was authored by Genelex employees that are not healthcare providers.
By Kristine Ashcraft, B.S. Last Reviewed 8/2/10
