Pharmacogenetics

(Medicine Screen Test)

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What is pharmacogenetic testing?

Pharmacogenetics is the study of how genes (DNA) affect the body’s response to certain medication. The genes carry information that determines how safe and effective a particular drug could be for you. Genes can be the reason why the same medication at the same dose will affect different individuals in very different ways. Genes may also be the reason why some individuals have Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR), commonly referred to as “side effects”, to certain medication, while others have none. Pharmacogenetic testing looks at your specific genes to assist you in determining which types of medication and dosages that may be more effective for you.

What is required for the test?

Testing is done by collecting a DNA specimen from the inside of the cheek using a (buccal) swab. Buccal swab kits can be requested from our laboratory via email at . 

There is very little to no risk involved in using a buccal swab to collect a DNA specimen because it is painless and non-invasive.

Benefits of Pharmacogenetic testing?

  • To determine whether certain medication could be effective for you;
  • To assist medical practitioners in determining the best treatment for you (personalised treatment)
  • Determine the best dosage for you to minimise Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR)
  • Contribute to your overall quality of life by determining the correct medication and dosage for you based on your genetics

Limitations of Pharmacogenetics

Pharmaceutical drugs are developed at a rapid pace and not all medication is covered in the gene test offered. However, the DNA test GENEdiagnostics offers cover 74 markers on your DNA and is informative for a range of medication related to:

  • Cardiovascular disease treatment,
  • Antipsychotics and antidepressants,
  • Oncology, and
  • Pain medication.
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Frequently asked Questions
related to Pharmacogenetics

HOW DOES PHARMACOGENETICS WORK?

In short, the majority of medication is metabolised in your body by a group of genes called the CYP P450 genes. Your body reacts differently to various medications depending on your DNA profile in these genes and a few others. These variants can give an indication of the rate of metabolism which gives an indication of the dosage required and/or if your body will metabolise specific medication.  This gives an indication of the likelihood that the medication is suitable for you.

HOW CAN THIS TEST HELP WITH MY MEDICATION?

The variants in the CYP P450 group of genes and a few others gives an indication of the rate of metabolism (dosage required) and the likelihood that the medication will be metabolised (if it is suitable for you) by your body.

WHAT HAPPENS TO MY PHARMACOGENETICS TEST RESULTS?

Genetic test results are strictly confidential. GENEdiagnostics only release test results to the individual or doctor who ordered the test. Even when insurance plans pay for testing, the medical aid does not receive the results. Under no circumstances will GENEdiagnostics give patient results to any other party without the written consent of the patient.

ARE TESTS CONVENIENT?

A buccal (cheek) swab is taken and then sent to the laboratory for analysis. Contact our laboratory at to arrange an appointment for you at one of the selected Clicks Clinics we work with.

HOW ACCURATE IS THE TEST?

We have over 20 years’ experience in the industry and our laboratory staff has the capability, training and experience to deliver accurate results.  Results go through strict quality assurance processes to ensure that you can have absolute faith in the result.

ARE TESTS PRIVATE?

Genetic results are governed by extremely strict laws and treated with strict confidentiality. Results are not given to any third party.

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