Pharmacogenetic testing in primary care.

Author information

1: Julie Parve is an associate professor at Concordia University, Mequon, Wis., and an FNP at Froedtert Community Physicians, Kewaskum, Wis. Jennifer Carlile is an FNP at MHC Healthcare, Marana, Ariz. Josiah Parve is a graduate of University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wis.

Abstract

The purpose of pharmacogenetic testing is to determine the risk of adverse reactions and/or likelihood of a medication's effectiveness. Pharmacogenetic testing can assist primary care providers in tailoring treatment according to a patient's genetic traits and his or her ability to metabolize certain medication. This article will discuss the benefits and limitations of pharmacogenetic testing and how to interpret results.