What is pharmacogenetic testing?
Pharmacogenetics, or pharmacogenomics, 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 people in very different ways. Genes may also be the reason some people have bad side effects to certain medication, while others have none. Pharmacogenetic testing looks at specific genes to help figure out the types of medication and dosages that may be right for you.
What is required for the test?
Testing is done by means of cheek (buccal) swabs. Buccal swab kits can be
requested from our laboratory or go to one of the clicks clinics we work with. There is
very little to no risk involved in taking a buccal swab.
Limitations of Pharmacogenetics
Not all medication is covered in the gene test offered. However, the DNA test
we offer 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.
Advantages of Pharmacogenetic testing?
- To determine whether certain medication could be effective for you and to assist medical practitioners in determining your treatment (personalised treatment)
- Determine the best dosage for you to minimise unpleasant or fatal side effects, which will contribute to your quality of life
FAQs
frequently asked questions related to Pharmacogenetics
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