What Happens When You Take a PGx Test?

A Step-by-Step Guide to PGx Testing

Pharmacogenetic testing—often called PGx testing—is quick, simple, and painless. Many patients in the UK are now exploring DNA cheek swab tests for medicines, including antidepressants, ADHD treatments, painkillers, and heart medications. If you’ve wondered what actually happens when you order a test, here’s what to expect.

A Simple Cheek Swab, Not a Blood Test

PGx testing starts with a quick cheek swab. There are no needles and no blood draws—just a cotton swab rubbed along the inside of your cheek. The sample is sealed in a kit and sent securely to the lab for analysis.

From Sample to Report: How It Works

Once your cheek swab arrives at the lab, scientists analyse the part of your DNA that controls how your body processes medicines. They look at genetic markers linked to drug metabolism, activation, and side effects. The results are compiled into a report that highlights which medicines may work better for you and which might not be as effective.

How Long Do PGx Results Take?

Most PGx results are ready in about two weeks. Your doctor can then review the report to guide future prescriptions. If you ordered privately, you can bring the results to your GP or specialist whenever you need new medication—or if your current prescription isn’t working as intended. Because your genes don’t change, one swab provides lifetime results.

Transcript: What Happens When You Take a PGx Test?

Are you wondering what a pharmacogenetic or PGx test actually involves? Don’t worry, it’s quick, easy, and painless.

You’ll start with a simple cheek swab—no blood, no needles. You rub the swab along the inside of your cheek and send it to the lab.

After that, the lab analyses your DNA, focusing on how your body processes certain medications.

Within about two weeks, your doctor gets a report showing which medicines might work better for you, and which ones may not suit your system.

You’ll then visit your Doctor so that they can personalise your prescribed medications, based on your genes.

If you ordered the test privately, you can share the results with your Doctor next time you need a prescription, or if your prescription isn’t working as intended.

Because your genes don’t change, one cheek swab means a lifetime of results.

FAQs About Taking a PGx Test

Q: Is a cheek swab accurate for DNA drug testing?

Yes. A cheek swab collects DNA cells from inside your mouth, which are more than sufficient for pharmacogenetic analysis. It is as reliable as a blood sample.

Q: How long do PGx test results take?

Most PGx results are available within about two weeks from the time your sample reaches the lab.

Q: Can I order a PGx test privately in the UK?

Yes. PGx tests are available privately as at-home cheek swab kits. You can then share the results with your GP or specialist for prescribing decisions.

Curious about how a simple cheek swab could personalise your prescriptions? Order your AttoPGx test kit today and start your journey toward more effective, personalised medicine.

Explore PGx Tests