What is Pharmacogenetics?
Pharmacogenetic testing is the process of determining how a person’s genetic makeup will determine his or her responsiveness to drugs. It is a combination of pharmacology and genetics that allows medical professionals to tailor pharmaceutical treatment to an individual patient.
What are the Benefits of Pharmacogenetic Testing?
Many drugs have the potential to cause side-effects which can range from annoying issues such as a dry mouth or diarrhea to life-threatening reactions that require immediate hospitalization. Pharmacogenetic testing can minimize the risk that you will suffer adverse effects. In addition, pharmacogenetic testing can tailor the dosage of your medication in such a way as to maximize its effectiveness while minimizing the amount that you have to take.
How is Pharmacogenetic Testing Performed?
You may be concerned about the cost and potential discomfort associated with undergoing pharmacogenetic testing. Fortunately for people who are seeking to improve the efficacy of their medications, pharmacogenetic testing is not particularly expensive and is certainly not invasive.
Pharmacogenetic testing is performed through a swab of the cheek in order to obtain a DNA sample. This sample is then sent to a lab, and the results will be returned within a few weeks. These test results will detail the way your body responds to 14 different classes of drugs. Best of all, because the test results are valid for the rest of your life, a simple cheek swab can result in a lifetime of better medical care.
Our Compounding Services and Pharmacogenetic Testing Services Work Together
As mentioned above, pharmacogenetic testing can help accurately determine the ideal dosage of a medication. Unfortunately, this knowledge may be useless if that particular dosage is not available commercially. Many drug manufacturers make their medications in standard dosages that may be too small or large for a particular patient, and cutting pills into various fractions is not particularly accurate. At Kress Specialty Apothecary, however, we are able to compound drugs into exact dosages that match the recommended dosage provided by the results of your pharmacogenetic testing. In addition to making customized dosages, we can also compound your medications into different forms to make them easier to take, including topical creams, syrups, suppositories, or even lollipops.
Call 856-323-8723 or stop by today for more information
Pharmacogenetic testing can significantly improve the effectiveness of your healthcare. Our testing is non-invasive, covers 14 different classes of drugs, and is often covered by health insurance. To learn more about how pharmacogenetic testing can help you, call Kress Specialty Apothecary today at 856-323-8723.