What is pharmacogenetic testing?

In the ever-evolving world of modern medicine, tailoring treatments to individuals’ needs has become a key focus. One breakthrough method gaining ground is pharmacogenetic testing, a tool that delves into your genetic makeup to provide personalised insights on medication responses. Let's break down the essentials of this method so that you can make informed decisions about your health.

In an article published in the journal Genetics and Genomic Advances, Chiara Auwerx her colleagues explain, “The origins of pharmacogenetics date back to the 1950s, when it was established that inter-individual differences in drug response are partially determined by genetic factors. Since then, pharmacogenetics has grown into its own field, motivated by the translation of identified gene-drug interactions into therapeutic applications.”

Essentially, pharmacogenetic testing examines your unique genetic code to identify how your body processes medications. This helps predict how you may respond to different drugs and their dosages. Your genetic variations can impact how your body metabolises drugs. Enzymes in the liver, influenced by your genes, play a vital role in breaking down medications. Pharmacogenetic testing sheds light on these variations.

Traditionally, doctors have relied on trial and error, observing patient reactions and adjusting medications accordingly. However, this approach often led to prolonged suffering for patients, as finding the right prescription could take time. Pharmacogenetic testing reduces guesswork, enabling healthcare professionals to prescribe medications with greater precision to minimise side effects and maximise efficacy.

While pharmacogenetic testing offers valuable insights, it’s important to recognise its limitations. It may not cover every medication, and factors beyond genetics, such as diet and other medications, can still influence your response to treatment.

It’s also important to note that pharmacogenetic testing is not the same as genetic testing. Genetic tests done for health reasons can help diagnose diseases. Pharmacogenetic testing cannot diagnose any conditions or tell you about your risk for developing them.

Any mutations in the gene examined will be detailed in your test results. Variations in these genes can indicate your likelihood of experiencing specific drug side effects. But these gene mutations do not tell you anything about your health condition.

Your doctor will analyse the results of your pharmacogenetic test alongside other information about your condition to tailor a treatment plan or adjust an ongoing one. This includes recommending medication that will likely function best in your body and the recommended dosage to maximise the therapeutic effect. Additionally, your test results may indicate whether you're susceptible to side effects.

Pharmacogenetic testing provides a promising avenue for optimising medication choices and dosages. While it is not the only tool in the medical toolkit, it adds a valuable layer of personalisation to healthcare, offering a more precise and effective approach to treatment. Discuss the possibilities with your doctor to determine if pharmacogenetic testing is right for you and take an active role in steering your health in the right direction.

Sources:
Auwerx C, Sadler MC, Reymond A, Kutalik Z. From pharmacogenetics to pharmaco-omics: Milestones and future directions. HGG Adv. 2022 Mar 16;3(2):100100. doi: 10.1016/j.xhgg.2022.100100. PMID: 35373152; PMCID: PMC8971318.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8971318/
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/pharmacogenetic-tests/#:~:text=Pharmacogenetic%20testing%20provides%20information%20about,cells%20swabbed%20from%20your%20cheek.