When Does it Make Sense To Get a Pharmacogenomic Test?

By analyzing genetic variations that influence drug metabolism, efficacy, and potential adverse reactions, pharmacogenomics tests provide valuable insights for personalized treatment decisions. So why are we not using it more frequently and when does it make sense to order a pharmacogenomic test?

Healthcare is one of the rare industries, in which oftentimes, by requesting a service, the work hardly begins for the patient. Especially in complex cases, care is rarely seamless: test are done, drugs are presribed and if all goes well the problem is resolved.  But oftentimes months can pass before the right drug and dose is found. Antidepressants are a good example. They are still often prescribed on a trial and error basis, with changes made if the initial regimen proves ineffective. 

But what if there was a better way for prescribing? This is where pharmacogenomic testing comes into play. However, despite its potential, implementing pharmacogenomics testing is more complex than it may seem.

Barriers to broader use:

1. Price of testing

2. Lack of genetic literacy

3. Clinical decision support tools

In this discussion, you will hear from Adrijana Kekić, Pharmacogenomics Clinical Specialist at the Mayo Clinic. We discussed 

• the current state of pharmacogenomics, 

• the optimal timing for individuals to undergo a pharmacogenomics test, to get the right drug and the right dose  based on your metabolism,

• Why is pharmacogenomics not used more frequently, 

• Further development of the field. 

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