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PGx

What is PGx?

Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is the study of how an individual’s DNA can impact their response to certain medications. The primary objective of PGX testing is to avoid adverse reactions or side effects and achieve the most favorable outcomes from prescribed drugs. By utilizing PGX, healthcare providers can customize treatments for their patients based on their genetic makeup.

How does it work?

PGx operates by recognizing that our genes have a significant influence on how our bodies react to drugs. In instances where patients have particular gene variants, their bodies may process certain medications in a distinct manner. If a gene variant disrupts the expected drug reaction, patients may encounter unexpected side effects, or the medicine may not perform as intended.

PGx testing identifies these genetic variations that impact drug responses. These variants can occur in genes that influence drug metabolism due to missing or altered drug-receptor proteins. Prior to administering medication, pharmacogenetic tests can identify a patient’s response or reaction to a drug.

By minimizing reliance on the trial-and-error method for determining medication effectiveness, PGx can improve the efficiency of pharmaceutical treatment processes. This can result in reduced costs incurred by patients for ineffective medications, avoidance of dangerous and potentially life-threatening side effects or reactions, and the development of personalized treatment plans to enhance patient care.