Oregon PGX
(Pharmacogenetics)
Consulting

All tests require a qualified genetic pharmacist consultation with an associated fee. Patients are encouraged to never stop taking their medications unless approved by their Healthcare Provider.

Pharmacogenomics (also known as pharmacogenetics or PGX) is the study of how our genes affect the way we respond to medications. The word “pharmacogenomics” comes from the words “pharmacology” (the study of the uses and effects of medications) and “genomics” (the study of genes and their functions).

SERVICES WE OFFER

Genetic testing (cost range from $300-$400 per test). Some insurances may cover.

Insurance coverage for pharmacogenetic testing varies by insurance company and plan, and may depend on the reason for testing. You can contact your insurance company directly to ask about coverage, and you may need to provide the test's CPT code, 81418.

https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/view/article.aspx?articleid=58801&ver=71

Flexible Spending (FSA) and Health Savings (HSA) accounts are a great resource for covering your medical expenses tax-free. While funds in a Health Savings Account are yours for life, your FSA dollars may expire at the end of the year, depending on your employer’s policy.

Don’t let those FSA dollars disappear! Consult your individual health plan for more details on qualifying medical expenses. You can read more about FSAs at healthcare.gov

PGX for Medications
$350.00

Variations in our genetic code can influence an individuals response to medications.

FDA : Pharmacogenetic Associations for which the Data Support Therapeutic Management Recommendations

Medications (popular medications):

Amphetamine
Aripiprazole
Atomoxetine
Azathioprine
Carbamazepine
Celecoxib
Citalopram
Clopidogrel
Meclizine
Meloxicam
Metoclopramide
Pantoprazole
Tramadol
Warfarin

PGX for Skin Health
$300.00

Provide clarity on what skin regimen will work best for you without trial and error.

Test gives results for:

Collagen breakdown and repair, which impacts the firmness and elasticity of your skin
Antioxidant defense and detoxification
DNA repair mechanism (ex: after UV exposure)
Melanin production.
Inflammation.
Breakouts, ache and sebum regulation.

PGX for Fitness
$375.00

For professional athletes or casual exercisers. Individuals who injure easily. Those who don't obtain desired results from their workouts.

Test gives results for:

Power/strength potential
Endurance/aerobic capacity
Muscle fiber type and bone composition
Caffeine metabolism
Energy during exercise
Cardiopulmonary capacity
Structural integrity of soft tissues inflammation and oxidative stress.
Blood flow:blood pressure and oxygenation.

Why PGX?

Studies show that 50% of prescription drugs don't work for most patients.

99% of all individuals have at least one genetic mutation that would adversely affect their response to medications.

1.3 Million Adverse Drug Reactions emergency department visits each year are potentially avoidable with PGX.

Our services provide you with genetic testing, and consultation with your Healthcare Provider (HCP).

Not everyone needs a PGX test, but those who take multiple medications or who have failed medications absolutely need this test.

PGx (Pharmacogenomics) consultations are used to personalize medication choices based on an individual's genetic makeup. These consultations typically aim to understand how genetic variations can affect drug response, effectiveness, and the risk of side effects. Below are a few examples of PGx consultations:

1. Antidepressant Medication Consultation

Scenario: A patient is struggling to find an effective antidepressant. They have tried several medications but have experienced limited benefit or troublesome side effects.

PGx Consultation: The pharmacogenomic consultation focuses on identifying genetic markers that affect the metabolism of antidepressants. For example, variations in the CYP450 enzyme family could affect how quickly the body processes certain drugs like SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors).
Outcome: The genetic test reveals that the patient has a slower metabolizer phenotype for a specific SSRI, making it less effective and more prone to side effects. The clinician recommends an alternative medication based on the PGx results.

2. Pain Management Consultation

Scenario: A patient with chronic pain is being treated with opioid pain medications but has a history of either experiencing inadequate pain relief or developing significant side effects like nausea or drowsiness.

PGx Consultation: The consultation focuses on evaluating genes related to opioid metabolism, such as CYP2D6 and OPRM1. Variants in these genes can impact how opioids are processed in the body, either increasing or decreasing their effectiveness.
Outcome: The PGx testing reveals that the patient has a genetic variation leading to a decreased ability to metabolize certain opioids. The clinician adjusts the pain management strategy by recommending a different class of drugs or modifying the opioid dosage.

3. Cardiovascular Drug Consultation

Scenario: A patient with a history of cardiovascular disease is prescribed a statin for cholesterol management but experiences muscle pain and weakness, a common side effect.

PGx Consultation: The consultation includes a review of genes like SLCO1B1 (affecting statin uptake into liver cells) and CYP3A5 (affecting statin metabolism).
Outcome: PGx testing indicates a genetic variant that increases the risk of muscle-related side effects with the current statin. The doctor may suggest a different statin or dose adjustment to reduce the risk of side effects.

4. Cancer Treatment Consultation

Scenario: A patient is diagnosed with breast cancer and is recommended chemotherapy, but they have concerns about the potential side effects.

PGx Consultation: The consultation involves testing for specific genetic markers like DPYD and UGT1A1, which influence the metabolism of chemotherapy drugs such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and irinotecan.
Outcome: The results show that the patient has genetic variants that may increase the risk of severe side effects from 5-FU. The oncologist adjusts the chemotherapy regimen based on the PGx results to minimize side effects while maximizing treatment efficacy.

5. Psychiatric Medication Adjustment Consultation

Scenario: A patient is diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and is being treated with stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate or amphetamines, but experiences jitteriness and insomnia.

PGx Consultation: A pharmacogenomic consultation evaluates genes like ADRA2A (related to norepinephrine regulation) and DAT1 (affecting dopamine transporters).
Outcome: Genetic testing indicates that the patient may have a genetic profile that makes them more sensitive to stimulant medications. Based on these results, the prescribing clinician may switch to a non-stimulant medication, like atomoxetine, for better symptom management with fewer side effects.

6. Diabetes Medication Consultation

Scenario: A patient with Type 2 diabetes is taking metformin but experiences gastrointestinal discomfort and difficulty controlling blood sugar levels.

PGx Consultation: The consultation focuses on evaluating genes like SLC22A1 (influencing metformin transport into cells) and ATM (linked to response to metformin).
Outcome: The genetic test shows that the patient may have genetic variants that lead to poor response to metformin. The clinician may consider adjusting the diabetes treatment plan, such as switching to another oral medication like sitagliptin or an injectable like GLP-1 receptor agonists.

In each of these cases, PGx consultations offer valuable insight into how an individual’s genetic profile influences drug response, enabling more personalized and effective treatment plans while minimizing adverse effects.