Personalized approach to patients with statin intolerance based on pharmacogenomics (function of OATP1B1 protein)

Statins, HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, are effective at lowering blood cholesterol levels and protecting against cardiovascular incidents. Their uptake into hepatocytes depends on the activity of the SLCO1B1 gene which codes for the OATP1B1 transporter protein. Pharmacogenomic testing provides us information about the activity level of a certain protein. Lowered activity level of OATP1B1 protein can prolong the bioavailability of some drugs, such as statins. This greater systemic exposure to statins carries a higher risk of intolerance symptoms when compared to normal function of the OATP1B1 protein.