Not everyone responds to the same medicine in the same way. For some, a drug works perfectly, while for others it may cause side effects—or not work at all. This is where pharmacogenomics comes in, a field that studies how your genes influence the way your body processes medicines.
For example, two patients with the same condition may be prescribed the same drug. One may respond well, while the other might experience no improvement or harmful side effects. By analyzing genetic variations, doctors can predict these responses and tailor treatments accordingly.
In India, regulatory bodies like the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and CDSCO are encouraging studies in personalized medicine, though it’s still in early stages compared to Western countries. Globally, pharmacogenomics is already helping doctors decide cancer therapies, blood thinners, and antidepressants with greater precision.
The ultimate goal? Personalized medicine, where treatment is designed not for the “average patient,” but for you.
~Do you think genetic testing should become a part of routine medical care before prescribing common drugs?
MBH/PS