Pharmacogenomics testing is commonly known as PGx testing. This testing has laid the base of personalized medicine, enabling healthcare providers to tailor drug therapies based on your genetic makeup, instead of just the traditional dosing that follows a “one-size-fits-all” approach. To add an example of traditional dosing, giving an Asian and an African the same medicine and the same dosage, while they may have different genetic makeups and require different drugs and dosages.

Here we have not only answered ‘What is PGx testing?’, knowing the fact that understanding pharmacogenomics is important, we have given an in-depth review on how PGx tests work, what benefits they have, what medications should be genome-based as per the FDA, and more.

How Pharmacogenetics Works?

Pharmacogenetic studies examine the varied individual responses to medications based on their genetic makeups. PGx testing identifies specific genetic markers (DNA sequence) that can predict the effectiveness and safety of certain drugs. By understanding the DNA sequence of an individual, healthcare providers can make informed decisions about medication choices and dosages.

This informed medication minimises trial and error, while increasing the effectiveness. For those asking, ‘how accurate is PGx testing?’, this testing gives a picture of your genetic makeup and thus is recommended by the FDA itself for some of the genome-based medications. The PGx tests are also covered by insurance, however under certain circumstances. An article covering Medicare coverage for a PGx test can be found here.

Who Should Consider PGx Testing?

PGx testing is beneficial for individuals who:

• Prescribed medications are known to have variable responses among individuals.
• Have experienced adverse drug reactions previously or are not getting satisfactory results with current medications.
• Are starting a new medication treatment, especially for conditions like depression, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, or pain management.

Did you know?

CYP450 gene family play a crucial role in metabolising up to 75% of medications, and thus, CYP450 gene testing is famous among doctors and patients too. Book an at-home PGx test from RPh LABS now.

While there is no specific age for undergoing a PGx test, as it can simply be performed with just the help of your saliva, studies suggest that as early as 5 years of age is fine, and according to some specialists, the PGx test may not be quite effective before the age of 12. This is because a child’s genetic and metabolic system can continue to develop in early childhood. If you’re considering genome-based medication, please note that the turnaround time for PGx results is approximately 7 days, so plan your test accordingly.

FDA-Approved Medications Requiring PGx Testing

The FDA has approved several medications where PGx testing is essential to guide therapy. Here’s a table highlighting some of these drugs:

Medication	Genetic Marker(s) Involved	Actionable Information
Abacavir (Ziagen)	HLA-B*5701	Screen to avoid hypersensitivity
Clopidogrel (Plavix)	CYP2C19	Assess for reduced efficacy in poor metabolizers
Warfarin (Coumadin)	VKORC1, CYP2C9	Adjust dosing based on genetic variants
Simvastatin (Zocor)	SLCO1B1	Evaluate the risk of myopathy
Mercaptopurine (Purinethol)	TPMT	Determine dosing to prevent toxicity

These medications have specific genetic markers that influence their metabolism and efficacy, making PGx testing crucial for optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Benefits of PGx Testing

• Enhanced Drug Efficacy: Identifies the most effective medications based on genetic profiles.
• Reduced Adverse Drug Reactions: Minimizes the risk of side effects by avoiding drugs that may be harmful due to genetic variations.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Facilitates the development of tailored medication regimens that align with individual genetic makeup.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Potentially lowers healthcare costs by reducing trial-and-error prescribing and hospitalizations due to adverse drug reactions.

Accessibility of PGx Testing

PGx testing is accessible to most individuals through healthcare providers and certain direct-to-consumer services. While it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to interpret the results accurately and make informed decisions about medication adjustments, the test reports of some labs, such as RPh LABS, are clear enough that almost anyone can read and understand it – for those who still cannot, RPh LABS has its lab technicians available to explain these reports to you or your doctor.

Accuracy and Laboratory Standards

As PGx test reports can become the basis of your drug and dosage, their reliability is critical. Reputable PGx laboratories such as RPh Labs are CLIA certified and adhere to strict standards to ensure accurate results. This certification shows that the lab meets the regulatory requirements under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) for high complexity testing.

Methods of PGx Testing at RPh Labs

RPh Labs employs advanced methodologies for PGx testing, including:

• Saliva-Based Collection Kits: Non-invasive and convenient for patients.
• DNA Extraction and Genotyping: Utilizes cutting-edge technology to analyse genetic variants.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Provides detailed reports that healthcare providers can use to guide medication decisions.

These methods ensure that patients receive accurate and actionable information to optimise their pharmacotherapy.

Conclusion

Pharmacogenomic testing gives you insights into your genetic makeup. This helps doctors understand how genetic variations of an individual may impact drug metabolism, allowing healthcare providers to tailor treatments. This results in minimized trial & error and improved outcomes with pharmacogenomics testing. Various medications, especially mental health medications and other genome-based medications, can benefit from pharmacogenetic testing.

As the field continues to evolve, PGx DNA testing is expected to become an integral part of routine medical practice, benefiting patients across various therapeutic areas. Unsure about the process of getting a PGx test? Here is how it works.

Disclaimer: This blog is only for informational purposes. Always consult your healthcare expert before taking any medical action.