Kabrena Rodda’s research has uncovered unexpected risks in supposedly safer medications, contributing to our understanding of drug interactions and genetic factors in metabolism. Her work spans from antidepressants to opioids, and even chemical weapons, showcasing the broad impact of forensic toxicology on public health and safety.
Rodda’s journey began over two decades ago as a graduate student investigating fatalities linked to newer antidepressants. These drugs, known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), were thought to be safer than their predecessors. However, Rodda’s research revealed a disturbing trend.
“It was troubling to see a growing number of fatalities involving these supposedly safer drugs,” said Rodda. “It turns out that you can essentially overdose on serotonin through something commonly referred to as serotonin syndrome, even if the drug concentrations in your blood are within therapeutic ranges. This is particularly true if a person has taken multiple drugs that increase serotonin levels.”
Unraveling the Tramadol Mystery
Rodda’s work on SSRIs led her to investigate tramadol, a pain reliever designed to act on serotonin rather than opioid receptors. Her research uncovered surprising findings about this seemingly innocuous drug.
“We documented what was later recognized as some of the first evidence of the potential for tramadol abuse, especially in people who have a higher than normal amount of 2D6, which causes them to metabolize tramadol and many other drugs faster than expected,” she explained. “Years later, tramadol is now considered a powerful opioid because of this.”
This discovery highlighted the crucial role of genetic variations in drug metabolism. Some individuals, due to their genetic makeup, may experience a drug’s effects differently than others, potentially leading to unexpected and dangerous outcomes.
From Laboratory to Battlefield
Rodda’s expertise in chemical analysis led her to a 22-year career in the U.S. Air Force, where she served as a chemical weapons inspector and expert on chemical threats. Her work ensured compliance with UN resolutions on the elimination of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq after the Gulf War.
“I put on the uniform to serve my country,” said Rodda. “I became a scientist because of my technical interests. If there’s a unifying thread in everything I’ve done, it’s wanting to not only understand the immediate threat but also to step back to get information about the whole picture of what’s needed to make the world a safer place.”
Why It Matters
Rodda’s research has far-reaching implications for public health and safety. Her work on SSRIs and tramadol has helped identify previously unknown risks associated with these medications, potentially saving lives by informing better prescribing practices and patient monitoring.
Moreover, her contributions to chemical weapons inspection and the development of a Global Chemists’ Code of Ethics underscore the critical role of science in international security and ethical practice. As the opioid crisis continues to claim lives, Rodda’s ongoing research on fentanyl and its analogs at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) remains crucial.
For the general public, this research highlights the importance of understanding individual variations in drug responses. It emphasizes the need for personalized medicine approaches and careful consideration of drug interactions, even with medications considered “safe.”
Rodda’s recent recognition as an American Chemical Society (ACS) Fellow acknowledges her significant contributions to science and society. Her career serves as an inspiring example of how scientific research can directly impact public safety and global security.
Quiz:
- What unexpected risk did Rodda’s research reveal about SSRIs?
- How did Rodda’s work change our understanding of tramadol?
- What is the significance of the enzyme cytochrome P450 isoenzyme 2D6 in Rodda’s research?
Answers:
- Rodda’s research revealed that SSRIs could lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal condition, even at therapeutic doses.
- Rodda’s work provided some of the first evidence of tramadol’s potential for abuse and its potent opioid effects in certain individuals.
- The enzyme 2D6 plays a crucial role in metabolizing many drugs, including converting tramadol into a potent opioid metabolite. Variations in 2D6 levels can significantly affect how individuals respond to certain medications.
