Pharmacogenetics for Quitting: When Your DNA Picks Your Cessation Drug
CYP2A6 genotype predicts NRT response. CHRNA5 genotype predicts varenicline response. Pharmacogenetic testing for smoking cessation is technically feasible, clinically useful, and almost never done. The barrier is not science. It's implementation.
A simple genetic test—saliva sample, $100-200—could tell a smoker whether they're likely to respond to NRT or varenicline. The test could guide treatment selection, improve quit rates, and reduce the trial-and-error that characterizes current cessation care. **Pharmacogenetic testing for smoking cessation is evidence-based, clinically useful, and almost never used. The barriers: cost (not covered by insurance), awareness (most providers don't know about it), and the inertia of the one-size-fits-all approach.**
