CYP2B6 and OPRM1 gene variations predict methadone-related deaths

The largest proportion of methadone-associated deaths occurs during the drug induction phase. We analysed methadone-related fatalities for gene variations linked with methadone action. A significant association between high methadone concentrations and the CYP2B6*6 allele characteristic of the slow metabolizer phenotype was identified. We suggest that the risk of methadone fatality may be predetermined in part by the CYP2B6*6 allele. A significant correlation was also observed between post-mortem benzodiazepine concentrations and the OPRM1 A118G allele GA in methadone-related fatalities. Screening for these susceptibility variations prior to methadone prescription could assist in reducing the potential for serious adverse effects.