Genetic testing could help determine drug dosage, reduce side effects

Usually pharmaceutical companies determine the drug dosage just as a mean value. This amount may be too much for patients who absorb the substance faster, and too little for those with a slower metabolism. But in the future, your genes could tell you which dosage is right for you…

European researchers have looked how the analysis of your genes could help to determine the dosage for patients who need to take blood thinners. Within the project "EU Pact" they looked how this so-called genotyping could reduce side effects and at the same time increase the safety of patients who have to take anticoagulant medication for the rest of their lives.

This emerging field of pharmacogenetics promises doctors the tools to make informed treatment decisions based on predictive genetic testing. As the costs of these tests are falling steadily, your own genetic profile is likely to determine the dosage of an increasing number of medications".