Abstract

Thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) and Nudix hydrolase 15 (NUDT15) are key enzymes that catabolize thiopurines. Decreased or no-function alleles in TPMT and NUDT15 are associated with reduced or no enzyme activity and predictive of pronounced adverse effects, including severe myelosuppression, that may occur among individuals treated with standard doses of thiopurines. Genetic variants in these genes are present in all world populations; however, their frequency varies by ancestry. In this updated guideline, we provide recommendations for adjusting starting doses of mercaptopurine, thioguanine, and azathioprine based on TPMT and NUDT15 genotypes, including for individuals with variants in both genes (updates on www.clinpgx.org).