PHOENIX
Pharmacogenomics
The traditional 'one drug fits all' or 'one dose fits all' approach is increasingly proving inadequate, given the complexity and uniqueness of individual patient responses to medications. The goal of pharmacogenomics is to transition towards a personalised approach, tailoring drug choice and dosage to align with each patient's genetic profile.
This evolution is not only a focus of academic research but is also gaining considerable attention from policy makers, driven by its potential to enhance patient outcomes and reduce healthcare expenditure and the growing evidence from the pharmaceutical industry regarding the success of genomically targeted drug development.
The PHOENIX Trial
The PHOENIX trial is exploring how genetic testing can help doctors choose the safest and most effective medications for patients based on their unique genetic makeup. The trial is specifically designed to show whether using these genetic tests before prescribing drugs can reduce harmful side effects and improve patient outcomes.
By demonstrating the benefits and cost-effectiveness of this approach, the trial aims to support the broader use of pharmacogenomics (PGx) in the NHS, making personalised medicine a routine part of healthcare.
Pharmacogenomics Explained
Pharmacogenomics is the study of how our genes influence our responses to medications.
The term "pharmacogenomics" combines "pharmacology" (the study of the uses and effects of medications) and "genomics" (the study of genes and their functions).
Genes are short segments of DNA (your genetic information), and each person has over 20,000 different genes. These genes carry the instructions for making proteins, which are essential for building various parts of the body, including the parts where medicines take effect. The specific genes involved in how we respond to medications are called pharmacogenes.
Aims of the Trial
Carry out an ambitious and world leading clinical trial to investigate the impact of panel based pharmacogenomics testing.
Show the benefits associated with pharmacogenomics for the patient (reduced side effects) and the NHS (delivery of cost savings).
Understand how the evidence we generate will inform a strategy for the adoption of pharmacogenomics in Glasgow, setting a precedent for a national rollout across Scotland.
