A Call for Clear and Consistent Communications Regarding the Role of Pharmacogenetics in Antidepressant Pharmacotherapy

Recent regulatory and industry communications pertaining to the clinical importance of pharmacogenetic information, along with related language included in the product labeling of some US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs, has resulted in confusing and inconsistent information. In particular, specific statements regarding the relevance of pharmacogenetics in relation to treatment outcomes from certain antidepressants deserve clarification. There clearly is not only the need for clarification, but also an opportunity to educate the clinical and scientific community in this relevant area.