Q: What does metabolizer status mean?
A: Metabolizer status refers to how efficiently your body processes certain medications based on your genetic makeup. It indicates whether you are a poor, intermediate, normal, rapid, or ultra-rapid metabolizer of specific drugs, which affects how well the medication works and the risk of side effects.
Q: How is the metabolizer status calculated?
A: Metabolizer status is calculated using the star allele (*allele) system, which identifies specific genetic variations in enzymes responsible for drug metabolism. Each person inherits two alleles for each gene, one from each parent. These alleles can have different versions (variants) that affect enzyme activity. For example:
- CYP2D6 gene: Alleles like *1 or *2 indicate normal function, while *3, *4, *5, and *6 indicate reduced or no function.
- CYP2C19 gene: Alleles like *1 indicate normal function, while *2 and *3 indicate reduced function.
The combination of these alleles determines your overall metabolizer status for a particular enzyme. For instance, having two non-functioning alleles (*4/*4) would classify you as a poor metabolizer, while having one normal and one non-functioning allele (*1/*4) would classify you as an intermediate metabolizer.
Q: How do I read my report?
A: To understand your Personalized Medicine Report, let's break down a sample entry:
- Medication Name (Clozapine): This is the specific medication being analyzed for its effectiveness and potential side effects based on your genetic makeup.
- Gene and Variant (HTR3A | rs1062613-CC): This line shows the gene and specific genetic variant that affects your response to the medication. In this case, it is the HTR3A gene with the rs1062613 variant. The genotype CC indicates your genotype for this variant.
- Evidence Level (3): This number indicates the strength and reliability of the scientific research supporting the genetic association with the medication. An evidence level of 3 suggests moderate evidence, meaning there is a reasonable amount of research backing this finding, but it may not be as robust as levels 1 or 2.
- Recommendations: This section provides personalized advice based on your genotype. For example, it suggests that patients with the CC genotype and schizophrenia may be less likely to respond to clozapine compared to those with the TT genotype. It also notes that other genetic and clinical factors can influence the response.
By understanding these components, you can interpret your report to see how your genetic makeup might influence your response to various medications, helping you and your healthcare provider make more informed decisions about your treatment plan.
Q: Can I make drug dosage adjustments based on this report?
A: It is not recommended that you directly make any changes to your medication based on this report alone. Other factors, such as body weight, age, kidney and liver function, and overall health, also influence the required dosage. Therefore, it is essential to discuss the findings of your Personalized Medicine Report with your healthcare provider. They can interpret the genetic information in the context of your complete medical history and current health status to make informed decisions about any necessary dosage adjustments.
Q: How long will it take to receive my results after submitting my DNA data?
A: After uploading your DNA data, the report is typically generated and shared with you via email within 12-24 hours.
Q: How is my genetic information kept secure?
A: Your privacy is our top priority. We adhere to strict protocols to ensure your genetic data and personal information are kept secure and confidential. Your data is never shared with third parties without your explicit consent.
Q: What if I don’t have my DNA data yet?
A: You can place your order now and upload your DNA data anytime. There’s no time limit on when you can upload the data. DNA data can be obtained through any genetic test on the market. Popular options include MyHeritageDNA, AncestryDNA, and 23andMe. Xcode Life is not affiliated with any of these companies.
