Pharmacogenomics (PGx)

Pharmacogenomics is the study of how inherited genetic differences influence the way drugs or medications are metabolized by each individual.   We have learned that individual alterations in drug metabolism can lead to adverse drug reactions, inadequate treatment response, and often “trial and error” based prescribing. Through pharmacogenetic testing, we can determine which medications are best suited to individual patients in a personalized fashion. This novel technology has been used over the past decade in the Psychiatric society to prevent delayed response to anxiety and depression treatment. However, we are seeing the importance of using Pharmacogenetics in patients suffering from polypharmacy, multiple drug reactions and intolerances, or patients refractory to current treatments.