Southeast Asian Pharmacogenomics Research Network (SEAPharm): Current Status and Perspectives.

Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is increasingly being recognized as a potential tool for improving the efficacy and safety of drug therapy. Therefore, several efforts have been undertaken globally to facilitate the implementation process of PGx into routine clinical practice. Part of these efforts include the formation of PGx working groups working on PGx research, synthesis, and dissemination of PGx data and creation of PGx implementation strategies. In Asia, the Southeast Asian Pharmacogenomics Research Network (SEAPharm) is established to enable and strengthen PGx research among the various PGx communities within but not limited to countries in SEA; with the ultimate goal to support PGx implementation in the region. From the perspective of SEAPharm member countries, there are several key elements essential for PGx implementation at the national level. They include pharmacovigilance database, PGx research, health economics research, dedicated laboratory to support PGx testing for both research and clinical use, structured PGx education, and supportive national health policy. The status of these essential elements is presented here to provide a broad picture of the readiness for PGx implementation among the SEAPharm member countries, and to strengthen the PGx research network and practice in this region.

Optimization of Intermittent Vancomycin Dosage Regimens for Thai Critically Ill Population Infected by MRSA in the Era of the "MIC Creep" Phenomenon.

BACKGROUND: the shifting of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of methicillin-resistant Staphylocuccus aureus (MRSA) strains to the higher value has emerged to worsen clinical outcome to the patients particularly critically ill population.  The aim of this study was to identify the most appropriate dosage regimen of vancomycin to treat infection caused by MRSA with higher MIC in critically ill Thai population. METHODS: 10,000 replications of intermittent vancomycin dosage regimens were performed using Monte Carlo simulation. Pharmacokinetic parameters were derived from a population pharmacokinetic study conducted specifically in Thai population. The probability of target attainment (PTA) and cumulative fraction of response (CFR) of each dosage regimen were calculated. Risk of nephrotoxicity was also calculated and used as a consideration in determining the most appropriate dosage regimen of vancomycin. RESULTS: in order to achieve desired PTA > 80% vancomycin at higher dosing regimens were needed including 3g/day and 4 g/day for MIC 1.5mg/L and 2.0 mg/L, respectively. Highest CFR of 94.40% and 93.57% were from vancomycin 1 g every 6 h and 2 g every 12h. Standard dose of vancomycin and total dose of vancomycin 3 g/day provided approximately 51% and 73% CFR. Risk of nephrotoxicity afforded by giving 1.5g every 12h and 2g every 12h of vancomycin were 26.59% and 31.20%, respectively. CONCLUSION: the result from this study recommended intermittent dosage regimen 1.5g every 12h and 2g every 12h should be implemented as definite antibiotic treatment when considered infection caused by MRSA with MIC 1.5 and 2.0 mg/L, respectively.