cytochrome P450
Pronunciation: SY-toe-krome P-four-fifty
A family of liver enzymes responsible for metabolizing most psychiatric medications.
Full Definition
A superfamily of liver enzymes, particularly CYP2D6, CYP3A4, and CYP1A2, that metabolize the majority of psychiatric medications. Understanding cytochrome P450 systems is crucial for predicting drug interactions, determining appropriate dosing, and explaining individual variations in medication response. Genetic variations in these enzymes can lead to poor metabolizers (who may experience toxicity) or ultra-rapid metabolizers (who may not respond to standard doses). The term appears frequently in pharmacokinetic discussions and drug interaction warnings.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as CYP450 or specific isoforms like CYP2D6. Numbers should not be subscripted in standard text.
In Context
- "Fluoxetine is a potent inhibitor of cytochrome P450 2D6, leading to significant drug interactions." — Pharmacology textbook
- "The patient's cytochrome P450 genotype explained her poor response to standard antidepressant dosing." — Case study