One in Four Older Acute Patients Has Actionable Drug-Gene Interaction

This exploratory analysis quantifies the burden and clinical relevance of pharmacogenomic drug-gene interactions in acutely admitted older medical patients, a population where hepatic metabolizing capacity is otherwise invisible at the bedside.

pharmacogenomicsdrug-gene interactionsCYP2C19CYP2D6SLCO1B1polypharmacyolder adultsgeriatric pharmacyacute caremedication reviewprecision medicineobservational study Geriatrics / Geriatric Pharmacy

Background Information

PGx testing identifies clinically relevant drug-gene interactions in over 26% of older adults in acute care.

Pharmacogenomic (PGx) information could significantly enhance prescribing safety and effectiveness in older adults, who often present with complex medication regimens. Out of 125 patients, 50.4% had drug-gene interactions (DGIs); 26.4% were clinically relevant, with CYP2C19 and SLCO1B1 implicated in 25% of cases. This study identifies PGx testing as potentially beneficial in geriatrics, though factors like nutrition and inflammation must be considered. PGx data shows promise for improving prescribing in older adults with complex medications.

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Authors: Christensen LWS, Boas AK, Clausen E, Koch NE, Walls AB, Nørgaard LS, Andersen MA, Aharaz A, Nielsen RL, Bornæs O, Tavenier J, Jawad BN, Juul-Larsen HG, Iversen E, Andersen O, Christrup LL, Dalhoff KP, Houlind MB

Citation: Christensen LWS, Boas AK, Clausen E, et al. Clinical relevance of pharmacogenomic information for improving prescribing practices in acutely admitted older medical patients. British journal of clinical pharmacology. 2026. doi:10.1002/bcp.70799

Article Links: PubMed · Journal / DOI

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Executive Summary

Study Design

Patient Population

Primary Outcomes

Secondary Outcomes & Safety Profile

Pharmacist Implications

Clinical Pearls

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