Pharmacogenomics of Anticancer Agents: Implications for Clinical Pharmacy Practice

Abstract

Hematology and oncology have been two of the leading areas in pharmacogenomics. The use of genetic information to guide therapy has been practiced for a number of years. The identification of polymorphisms within drug-metabolizing enzymes of anticancer agents such as 6-mercaptopurine and irinotecan has led to subsequent changes in package-insert labeling and tests approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to identify polymorphisms. Many studies within oncology are now conducting pharmacogenomic analyses in drug development to identify predictors of response and/or toxicity. For clinical pharmacists, knowledge in the area of pharmacogenomics and drug metabolism is important to understand and integrate pharmacogenomics into clinical practice. This article will review a number of different agents used in the realm of oncology and will identify how pharmacogenomics has or will potentially affect treatment decisions in the future with the goal of improving patient care and outcomes.