Pharmacogenetics is the branch of genetics that provides knowledge of the patient’s genotype, in order to study the genetically determined variations to drugs in humans. This will help to :

Individuals respond differently to drugs and sometimes the effects are unpredictable. Differences in DNA sequences that alter the expression or function of proteins that are targeted by drugs, can contribute significantly to variation in the responses of individuals. Genetics can help bridge the gap between drug therapy and individual response in order to assure that the treatment works and the patient is well protected.

Main advantages of pharmacogenetic testing:

1. Decreases possible toxic effects of drugs i.e. side effects
2. Increases positive response to drug treatment by patient
3. Protects the patient from adverse drug reactions
4. Avoids “trial & error” prescription methods
5. Decreases overall cost of drug therapy
6. Helps prevent future disease caused by prescription of wrong drug.
7. Increments the success of overall treatment, specially in cases of drug therapy with:

        i. Codeine( Analgesic)
        ii. Warfarin ( Anti-coagulant)
        iii. Phenitoin ( Anti-epileptic)
        iv. Fluoxetine ( Prozac)
        v. Haloperidol (Anti-psychotic)

Pharmacogenetic Testing

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