Yes — the active ingredient is metabolized by a gene known to vary between individuals.
Relevant genes: CFTR
Kalydeco is affected by pharmacogenetics through the CFTR gene. Your genotype for this gene can change how your body processes Kalydeco, which can affect both how well it works and how well you tolerate it. The strongest evidence level on this page is Strong, based on CPIC or FDA guidelines.
Published guidance from CPIC on how ivacaftor should be dosed or substituted based on your CFTR phenotype.
| Phenotype | What it means | Recommendation | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
|
ivacaftor responsive
CFTR
|
Your genetic variant is responsive to ivacaftor. This medication can help improve your lung function and other cystic fibrosis symptoms by helping the CFTR protein work better. |
CPIC
Use ivacaftor according to the product label
|
Strong |
|
ivacaftor non-responsive
CFTR
|
Your genetic variant is unlikely to respond to ivacaftor. This medication is not expected to improve your cystic fibrosis symptoms, and a different treatment approach is recommended. |
CPIC
Ivacaftor is not recommended
|
Moderate |
|
ivacaftor irrelevant
CFTR
|
The impact of your genotype on response to this drug is unknown |
CPIC
Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.
|
— |
|
Not available
CFTR
|
The impact of your genotype on response to this drug is unknown |
CPIC
Initiate therapy with recommended starting dose.
|
— |
Source: CPIC
This page describes the general pharmacogenetics. A Gene2Rx report analyzes your own DNA to tell you which metabolizer group you fall into, across every medication.
Get your report Look up another medicationInformational only — not medical advice. Pharmacogenetic guidance describes population-level patterns; your individual response depends on many factors. Never start, stop, or change a medication without talking to your prescribing clinician.