Pharmacogenomics (PGx) Testing

Pharmacogenomics is the study of how a patient's genetic makeup contributes to a specific therapeutic result and/or adverse responses to specified medications. Using pharmacogenomics, doctors can customize treatment plans that minimize adverse side effects or risks.

Pharmacogenomics provides knowledge that helps doctors define a medicine regimen with a greater probability of a positive outcome. Get the right cure of the right medicine at the right time.

More, safer medicines the first time

Rather than the standard trial-and-error system of matching patients with the right medicines, doctors will be able to analyze your genetic profile and define the best available medicine therapy from the start. Not only will this take the guesswork out of finding the right medicine, it'll speed recovery time and increase safety as the likelihood of adverse responses is reduced.

More accurate methods of determining appropriate medicine dosages

Current methods of basing dosages on weight and age will be replaced with dosages based on a person's genetics; how well the body processes the drug and the time it takes to metabolize it. This will maximize the therapy's value and decrease the likelihood of overdose.

Not all drugs work for everyone

Many medicines that are currently available are "one size fits all," but they do not work the same way for everyone. It can be difficult to predict who will benefit from a medication, who will not respond at all, and who will experience negative side effects (called adverse drug reactions). Adverse drug reactions are a significant cause of hospitalizations and deaths in the United States.

What are the Chances of an ADR (Adverse Drug Reaction)?

The more medicines a patient is taking, the greater chance of an ADR.

Patients taking over 11 medicines have a 96% chance of an ADR.

With the knowledge gained from the Human Genome Project, researchers are learning how inherited differences in genes affect the body's response to medications. These genetic differences will be used to predict whether a drug will be effective for a particular person and to prevent adverse drug responses.

A simple noninvasive Pharmacogenomics test is an important once-in-a-lifetime test that may enhance or even save your life!

Genetic Testing and Screening: Understanding Your DNA

Advances in medical science have provided us with genetic testing, a method that is now easily accessible from home. It is significant for assessing the likelihood of developing specific conditions. When reviewed by medical professionals, the results can potentially save lives.

What Exactly is Genetic Testing?

Genetic (DNA) testing is a technique developed to identify whether an individual has inherited a predisposition to certain diseases. This method helps determine the presence of specific genetic mutations, which may indicate an increased risk for inheritable diseases.

The goal of genetic testing is to detect changes in genes, which serve as red flags for researchers and doctors, showing a statistical likelihood of developing a disease. With this information, healthcare professionals can take preventative measures, potentially reducing the risks of developing those conditions.

Genetic testing has become more widely available and is used to screen for various diseases, including cardiovascular conditions. It can reveal genetic conditions that warrant medical attention.

In the past, genetic tests were mainly focused on rare hereditary conditions. Today, tests can analyze multiple genes to assess the risk of developing a wide range of conditions. Currently, there are hundreds of genetic tests available.

Some Common Types of Genetic Testing:

• Newborn screening: Used after birth to identify genetic diseases that can be treated in early life.
• Diagnostic testing: Detects specific genetic conditions in individuals showing symptoms.
• Carrier testing: Identifies people who carry gene mutations for inherited conditions.
• Prenatal testing: Detects gene changes before birth.
• Pre-implantation testing: Reduces the risk of having a child with a particular genetic condition.
• Predictive testing: Identifies gene mutations related to future conditions.
• Forensic testing: Uses DNA to identify individuals in legal proceedings.

There are hundreds of genetic tests in use today, and new ones are constantly being developed. Genetic testing is invaluable for those interested in learning whether they have a genetic predisposition to certain diseases. These tests are simple, painless, and fast, with some even available for at-home use, making the process stress-free and convenient.

Genetic testing should be conducted under the guidance of a medical professional. Although the process can be costly, the availability of at-home tests, with a doctor's approval, offers an easy and affordable option for individuals seeking genetic screening.