Myths vs facts: Pharmakogenetik Medicheck and Wechseljahre

The combination of pharmacogenetics (drug gene testing) and menopause is often marketed as a personalized solution for hormone therapy. Facts: Some genes (e.g., CYP2D6, CYP3A4, COMT) do influence the metabolism of estrogens and progestins. However, clinical evidence for routine genotyping before hormone replacement therapy is weak. Most guidelines do not recommend genetic testing for menopause management. Myths: Claims that a genetic test alone can predict the 'perfect' dose or the 'best' preparation are exaggerated. Hormonal regulation is complex and influenced by lifestyle, gut microbiome, age, and many environmental factors. A Medicheck can provide risk hints (e.g., increased thrombosis risk with Factor V Leiden), but it does not replace medical supervision. Caveat: No test substitutes for an individual risk-benefit assessment by a gynecologist or endocrinologist. Evidence is mixed: strong for some pharmacogenes (e.g., tamoxifen metabolism), moderate to weak for menopause. Consumers should be skeptical of promises of 'tailored hormone therapy' based solely on DNA.