Pharmacogenetic Testing

What Is Pharmacogenetics and Why It Matters

Pharmacogenetics helps explain why the same medication can produce different results in different individuals. Genetic variations may influence the rate of metabolism, the body’s sensitivity to a drug, and the risk of side effects.

The Role of Pharmacogenetic Testing in Personalized Medicine

How Genes Affect Drug Tolerance

Certain CYP enzyme system genes are responsible for metabolizing most medications. Mutations in these genes can alter the rate of drug elimination, leading to either insufficient dosage or toxic effects.

A Personalized Approach to Pharmacotherapy

Knowing a patient’s genotype enables physicians to personalize treatment — selecting the optimal drug and dosage, minimizing the risk of complications, and increasing the overall effectiveness of therapy.

Areas of Pharmacogenetic Application

Pharmacogenetic research is applied across various fields of medicine, helping to tailor therapy more precisely and improve treatment outcomes.

Oncological Diseases

Genetic analysis helps select chemotherapy and targeted therapy drugs, minimize side effects, and improve treatment success rates.

Diabetes Mellitus

Testing allows determination of sensitivity to specific hypoglycemic agents and helps reduce the risk of complications.

Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders

A pharmacogenetic approach helps choose the right antidepressants, antipsychotics, or antiepileptic drugs, shortening the time required to find effective therapy.

HIV Infection

Testing reduces the risk of adverse reactions to antiretroviral drugs and helps design the most effective treatment regimen.

Keloid Scars

Genetic tests can identify a predisposition to pathological scar formation and guide appropriate therapy selection.

Methods of Conducting Pharmacogenetic Tests

These tests are based on molecular genetic techniques such as PCR analysis, sequencing, and detection of polymorphisms in genes related to drug metabolism. For the patient, the procedure typically involves providing a blood or saliva sample.

Who Needs Pharmacogenetic Testing

This type of research is especially important for individuals undergoing long-term or complex therapy. Indications include:

• selecting a treatment plan for cancer, epilepsy, depression, or diabetes;

• experiencing strong side effects from standard drug doses;

• lack of expected results from conventional therapy;

• pregnancy planning and the need for safe medication selection;

• managing multiple medications simultaneously.

Recommendations for the Use of Pharmacogenetic Testing

Doctors recommend testing before starting medications with a high risk of side effects or in cases where standard therapy proves ineffective. Testing helps optimize treatment, making it safer and more effective.

Pharmacogenetic Testing in Russia

Clinics

Pharmacogenetic research in Russia is available at leading medical institutions equipped with modern laboratory technology and staffed by experienced geneticists.

• Academician N.P. Bochkov Research Center for Medical Genetics (Moscow) — one of the country’s main genetics institutions. The center conducts a wide range of studies, including pharmacogenetic testing, and engages in scientific research to implement advanced diagnostic methods in clinical practice.

• Next Generation Clinic (St. Petersburg) — a private laboratory specializing in molecular and reproductive genetics. Comprehensive testing is available here, including drug metabolism analysis and personalized therapy selection.

• V.A. Almazov National Medical Research Center (St. Petersburg) — a large federal institution developing personalized medicine approaches. The clinic offers pharmacogenetic testing for patients with various conditions, including cardiovascular, oncological, and neurological diseases.

Cost

The cost of testing depends on the number of genes analyzed and the complexity of the procedure. Basic testing usually starts at $170–240, while extended panels analyzing dozens of genes are more expensive. The final price is determined by the chosen clinic and the range of analyses performed.

MARUS Assistance

Pharmacogenetics is particularly important for patients facing long-term or complex treatment, as well as for women planning pregnancy who prioritize safe therapy. The MARUS service helps organize consultations in leading clinics in Russia and abroad, conduct genetic testing, and obtain expert reports. Patients receive assistance in selecting a suitable medical center, scheduling appointments, and receiving support at all stages of examination. MARUS simplifies access to personalized healthcare, making treatment more precise, safe, and effective.