There are a variety of tests that can be run in order to determine whether or not a specific drug will be effective with a given patient. Rather than engaging in the proverbial trial-and-error with prescription medications, DNA drug sensitivity testing can be performed in order to determine the best-possible medication with minimal side-effects.
A Brief Introduction to Pharmacogenetics
According to an article in the Journal of Pharmacovigilence, studies have shown that there is a relationship between a person’s genetic constitution, disease pathology, and treatment. Pharmacogenetics as well as pharmacogenomics provide the reasons for why there is a variety in responses to drugs in specific patients. In brief, pharmacogenetics is “the science of determining the genetic differences on metabolic pathways which can affect individual responses to drugs, both therapeutically and adversely.”
The Benefits of Pharmacogenetics
The Benefits of Pharmacogenetics
The benefits of pharmacogenetics include being able to customize drugs for individual use. This can potentially minimize side effects as well as ensure that the appropriate drugs are provided to target a disease or condition, according to the Journal of Pharmacovigilence. Furthermore, the goal is to be able to maximize the therapeutic benefit when these drugs are prescribed.
Pharmacgenetics Testing Prevention
According to the Mayo Clinic’s Center for Individualized Medicine, a blood or saliva sample is used to perform pharmacogenomic testing. These samples are then studied to determine whether or not a medication will be effective, and if so, the appropriate dose that should be given. This test will also determine whether someone will experience serious side effects as a result of taking the medication.
Finally, a lab will conduct further testing and study to determine whether or not 1 or more genes has changes or variants. This is important to determine how someone may respond to specific medications. Given this DNA drug sensitivity testing protocol, the chances of someone being given the appropriate medication is increased.