Statins are used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, but can cause severe side effects. The SLCO1B1 c.521T>C RealFast™ Assay identifies a genetic variant responsible for simvastatin-induced myopathy.

SLCO1B1

• Simvastatin is a widely prescribed statin for lowering LDL cholesterol levels, but may cause dose-dependent adverse events.
• The c.521T>C variant of the solute carrier organic anion transporter family member 1B1 (SLCO1B1) gene affects the hepatic uptake and metabolism of statins.
• Patients carrying the c.521C allele have a higher risk of simvastatin-induced myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
• Adjustment of simvastatin dose according to the SLCO1B1 c.521T>C genotype is recommended by the Clinical Pharmacogenetic Implementation Consortium (CPIC).