Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is emerging as a crucial tool in optimising medication use, improving patient outcomes, and enhancing healthcare cost-effectiveness. By integrating PGx into Comprehensive Medication Management (CMM), clinicians can personalise treatment plans based on an individual’s genetic profile, thereby significantly reducing the risk of adverse drug events (ADEs), a leading cause of preventable mortality. This approach allows for tailoring prescriptions to genetic variants that impact drug metabolism, making medication regimens safer and more effective. This individualised approach mainly benefits patients with multiple chronic conditions, reducing the risk of adverse drug reactions and optimising treatment.
How pharmacogenomics can prevent adverse drug events
ADEs are a leading cause of preventable death, often driven by the inappropriate use of medications, especially in patients with polypharmacy. Poorly managed medication regimens not only increase healthcare costs but also contribute to morbidity and poor patient outcomes. CMM offers a structured approach to address these challenges, ensuring that each medication is appropriate, effective, and safe for the patient’s conditions. CMM has been shown to improve medication adherence, patient experiences, and overall healthcare outcomes while reducing costs.
