Why does the same medication work perfectly for one person and cause serious side effects in another? The answer is often in our genes.
Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is the science of how your genetic makeup affects how your body processes and responds to medications. It’s one of the most exciting developments in modern pharmacy — and TRS Pharmacy in Stafford, TX offers PGx testing today.
How Medications Are Metabolized
When you take a medication, your body breaks it down (metabolizes it) using enzymes encoded by your genes. The key enzyme family involved is called cytochrome P450 (CYP450).
Different people have different versions of these genes:
- Poor metabolizers break down drugs very slowly — leading to drug buildup and increased side effects
- Ultra-rapid metabolizers break down drugs too quickly — the medication may not reach therapeutic levels at all
- Normal metabolizers process drugs as expected
Without PGx testing, your doctor has no way to know which category you fall into.
What PGx Testing Reveals
A pharmacogenomics test analyzes your DNA to identify how you metabolize specific categories of medications, including:
- Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs)
- Blood thinners (like warfarin)
- Cardiovascular medications
- Pain medications (opioids, NSAIDs)
- Psychiatric medications
- Oncology drugs
The result is a personalized report that helps your pharmacist and doctor choose the right drug and dose for you — not the average patient.
When Should You Get Tested?
PGx testing is particularly valuable if you:
- Have had unexpected side effects from medications
- Tried multiple medications for the same condition without success
- Are starting a complex new treatment regimen
- Have a family history of unusual drug reactions
- Want to be proactive about personalized health
PGx Testing at TRS Pharmacy
TRS Pharmacy offers pharmacogenomics testing with a full consultation from Dr. Waseem, RPh PharmD:
For insured patients: Coverage varies — call us to verify your plan.
For uninsured / self-pay patients: $150–$300 maximum. This includes:
- Specimen collection (simple cheek swab)
- Laboratory testing
- Results interpretation
- Pharmacist consultation
- Lifetime updates — your genetic profile stays on file for future use
A Simple, Non-Invasive Process
PGx testing does not require a blood draw. A simple cheek swab is sent to a certified laboratory. Results are typically available within 1–2 weeks, after which Dr. Waseem will walk you through your results and provide specific medication recommendations.
Interested in PGx testing? Call TRS Pharmacy at 346-230-4148 or visit us at 3727 Greenbriar Dr, Suite 114, Stafford, TX. Open Mon–Sat, 9 AM–5 PM.