Organised by the FIP Community Pharmacy Section in collaboration with the FIP Social and Administrative Pharmacy Section

Introduction

It is routine for physicians and pharmacists to consider factors such as age, body mass, renal function and drug interactions in an attempt to avoid unintentional drug consequences. Nonetheless, genetic factors alone can account for anywhere between 20 and 95% of the variability in drug response, yet these often go unrecognised. In recent years, clinical pharmacogenomics research has made significant progress in defining which genetic variations are important for influencing interpatient variability in drug response.

Pharmacogenomics is about determining the right dose of the right drug for the right patient, and this science has the potential to be a real game changer for the healthcare system and the role of the community pharmacist, furthering the growth of their patient care role and personalised relationship with patients.

Pharmacogenomics is the science of how an individual’s unique genetic make-up influences his or her responses to a drug. With predictive modelling, it helps the healthcare professional personalise treatments that work best for the patient while also considering other variables such as the environment, changing lifestyle, and severity of a condition. This personalisation helps to avoid or mitigate medication side effects, improve results and will, ultimately, lead to better patient outcomes.

Programme

Learning Objectives