Utility of Pharmacogenomic Testing in Patients With Gastrointestinal Disorders

Researchers are trying to learn more about how individuals break down and process specific medications based on their genes. Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is a new, specialized field within individualized medicine. PGx is the study of how genes may affect the body's response to, and interaction with, some prescription medications. Genes carry information that determines things such as eye color and blood type. Genes can also influence how individuals process and respond to medications. Depending on genetic make-up, some medications may work faster or slower or produce fewer side effects.