Every patient responds differently to medication. For some, a standard dose offers relief; for others, the same medication may cause adverse effects or offer no benefit at all. Pharmacogenomics – an essential pillar of precision medicine – aims to change this by aligning treatment with a person’s unique genetic profile.
Pharmacogenomics is the study of how genes affect a person’s response to drugs. By analysing genetic variations that influence drug metabolism, efficacy, and safety, healthcare providers can tailor prescriptions to minimise risk and maximise therapeutic benefit. This approach stands to dramatically reduce adverse drug reactions (ADRs), which currently account for 5-10% of hospital admissions worldwide and are ranked among the top causes of mortality in several countries.
The Scale of the Problem, and the Promise of Genomics
Adverse drug reactions are a persistent and costly burden on health systems. Globally, they contribute to hospitalisations, prolonged recovery times, and avoidable complications. It’s estimated that up to 30% of these reactions could be prevented through precision medicine approaches, particularly those informed by pharmacogenomic testing.
The scale of this opportunity is supported by compelling data. A Mayo Clinic study found that 99% of individuals carry at least one genetic variant known to influence drug response. In other words, nearly everyone could benefit from pharmacogenomic insights.
In response, regulatory agencies are taking notice – especially in the USA. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now includes pharmacogenomic information in the labelling of over 400 medications. These updates guide clinicians on how a patient’s genetics may influence drug safety and efficacy, helping avoid ineffective or harmful prescriptions.
In Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has adopted international guidelines addressing the role of pharmacogenomics in pharmacovigilance. These guidelines provide a framework for evaluating pharmacogenomic associations and translating findings into treatment recommendations within product labelling. However, the extent to which pharmacogenomic information is currently integrated into Australian medication labelling is not as comprehensive as in the U.S. This presents an opportunity for Australia to enhance its adoption of pharmacogenomic data in clinical practice, aligning with global advancements in precision medicine.
Evidence from the Frontlines
The clinical value of pharmacogenomics is more than theoretical – it has been demonstrated in real-world settings. In a major international study known as U-PGx, patients receiving pharmacogenomic-guided treatment experienced a 30% reduction in adverse drug reactions compared to those under standard care. The findings are a strong endorsement for integrating pharmacogenomics into routine clinical decision-making, particularly when prescribing high-risk medications.
Well-known examples include drugs like warfarin, a common blood thinner with a narrow therapeutic range and a high risk of bleeding complications. Genetic testing can identify patients who metabolise warfarin differently, enabling safer and more effective dosing. Similar pharmacogenomic applications exist for clopidogrel, an antiplatelet drug, and many commonly prescribed antidepressants.
The Road Ahead for Australia
In Australia, pharmacogenomics is emerging as a powerful tool for delivering safer, more personalised care. At InGeNA, we see enormous potential in advancing its adoption – not just in hospital settings, but also across general practice, mental health, oncology, and aged care. By embedding genomic insights into prescribing pathways, clinicians can make informed choices that align with each patient’s biology, leading to improved outcomes and reduced system-wide costs.
Australian innovators are already making significant strides in the space. Companies like GeneS are helping clinicians integrate pharmacogenomic data into prescribing decisions through advanced clinical decision support tools. Meanwhile, Nutromics is pioneering real-time drug monitoring technologies that, when combined with pharmacogenomic insights, could revolutionise how medications are dosed and managed across a patient’s care journey. myDNA and Agena Bioscience are key players in pharmacogenomic testing: myDNA offers testing and reporting services across a range of medication categories, while Agena Bioscience develops technologies for high-throughput genetic analysis. They are joined by leaders such as Genomic Diagnostics, Sonic Genetics, and Australian Clinical Labs, who are expanding access to pharmacogenomic testing across clinical settings. Together, these homegrown companies exemplify the strength of Australia’s genomics industry and its growing impact on the future of precision medicine.
However, for pharmacogenomics to reach its full potential, infrastructure, policy, and education must evolve in parallel. This includes ensuring equitable access to genetic testing, integrating genomic data into electronic health records, and equipping healthcare professionals with the training needed to interpret and act on pharmacogenomic information.
Why It Matters
Pharmacogenomics exemplifies the promise of precision medicine: the right treatment, at the right dose, for the right person. It’s not only about reducing harm, it’s about delivering care that is as effective as it can be.
By leveraging the power of genetic insights, Australia has the opportunity to lead the way in safer prescribing practices. InGeNA is committed to advocating for these advancements and ensuring that our healthcare system is prepared to integrate and benefit from the next generation of precision medicine tools.
Follow InGeNA for the latest insights and updates on how genomics is transforming healthcare – for individuals, practitioners, and the broader health system.