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DNA Testing to Find the Best Medicines for You
Pharmacogenomics is a relatively new concept in day to day medicine, even though the science has been evolving for several decades. The AttoGroup is raising awareness about pharmacogenomics from two key perspectives: directly to consumers (through this website) and to doctors and medical practitioners through our laboratory services website, AttoDiagnostics.
When speaking with doctors in the field of mental health, we’ve identified several recurring themes that highlight the importance of pharmacogenomic testing in the UK. These are:
- Addressing serious medical conditions
- Mitigating serious side effects
- Reducing the financial burden of expensive medications
- Optimising outcomes when time is limited
In this blog, we’ll explore each of these points in detail.
1. Addressing Serious Medical Conditions
When dealing with a severe medical condition, time is critical. Placing patients on the most effective medication as quickly as possible can significantly improve both quality of life and treatment success. Whether it's autoimmune, cardiovascular or a cancer treatment, PGx testing removes much of the trial and error by pinpointing medications most likely to be effective based on an individual’s genetic profile.
Even for less immediately life-threatening conditions like anxiety, generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), mild depression, or adult ADHD, getting it right the first time can make a profound difference to quality of life.
2. Mitigating Serious Side Effects
Some medications, particularly those used for mental health conditions or complex diseases, can cause severe side effects. Clozapine, for example, is a medication prescribed for treatment-resistant schizophrenia and comes with significant risks. Mental Health PGx testing can identify safer or better-tolerated alternatives, helping reduce the likelihood of adverse reactions and increasing the chances that patients will stick to their prescribed treatment plans.
3. Reducing the Financial Burden of Expensive Medications
In fields like oncology and rheumatology, medications can be prohibitively expensive, particularly for patients relying on private healthcare or out-of-pocket payments. PGx testing ensures that these costly treatments are directed toward medications most likely to succeed, making both clinical and financial sense.
4. Optimising Outcomes When Time Is Limited
Sometimes, time is a crucial factor. Whether a patient is working toward an important milestone (such as a wedding) or has limited time due to the progression of a condition, PGx testing can help achieve the best possible outcomes quickly. By identifying the most effective therapeutic options from the start, PGx testing allows patients and practitioners to focus on improving quality of life without unnecessary delays.
Is There Pharmacogenomic Testing Near Me?
PGx testing represents a groundbreaking approach to personalised medicine. If you’re part of the NHS and have a life-threatening condition like cancer, PGx testing may already be part of your treatment plan.
For those in the private healthcare system, PGx testing is readily available. Your doctor may raise the option with you, but if you’re concerned about side effects and found this blog independently, you can purchase a test directly from us. Simply bring the results to your doctor for further guidance.
Pharmacogenomic testing reduces trial and error, enhances safety, and ensures resources are used effectively. For both patients and healthcare practitioners, it’s a powerful tool that leads to better decision-making and improved outcomes.
We wish you every success with your treatment journey.
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