HLA genotype testing for carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine and eslicarbazepine: A guideline developed by the UK Centre of Excellence in Regulatory Science and Innovation in Pharmacogenomics (CERSI-PGx)

The *HLA-B*\*15:02, *HLA-B*\*15:11 and *HLA-A*\*31:01 alleles predispose to immune-mediated hypersensitivity reactions induced by aromatic anticonvulsants

The UK Centre of Excellence in Regulatory Science and Innovation in Pharmacogenomics (CERSI-PGx) publishes a guideline for HLA genotyping before prescribing carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine or eslicarbazepine. Every treatment-naive patient, regardless of ancestry or indication, should be tested for the HLA-B\15:02, HLA-B\15:11 and HLA-A\31:01 alleles to reduce the risk of severe cutaneous reactions. These drugs should be avoided in HLA-B\15:02 carriers, and in HLA-A\31:01 or HLA-B\15:11 carriers when an alternative is available. The guideline aligns with other international pharmacogenetics prescribing recommendations.

Synthesis written by Geno'X. For the full original abstract, please refer to the source publication.

This UK guideline extends HLA genotyping to all patients regardless of ancestry, where practice was often limited to Asian-ancestry populations for HLA-B\15:02. Including HLA-A\31:01 and HLA-B\*15:11 broadens risk coverage beyond classic Stevens-Johnson syndrome. A reference text for structuring preemptive genotyping in neurology and psychiatry.