Clinics & Practices
Pharmacogenetic testing
Every person has a unique metabolism that is determined by genetic variants. These variants influence how drugs are processed in the body and thus also their efficacy and toleraability.
A pharmacogenetic (PGx) test can identify these variants and allow them to be specifically taken into account when making treatment decisions.
Only available in Germany.
Target group
Service
Procedure
Contact
FAQ
A PGx test helps you select and dose the right medication and enables you to prescribe personalized medication.
We believe in strong partnerships
Since 2018, we have been collaborating with Life & Brain and the renowned Institute of Human Genetics at the University Hospital Bonn (UKB) to conduct pharmacogenetic testing.
Target group
Who can benefit from a PGx test?
A PGx test helps you make informed treatment decisions and is particularly useful for…
Patients with planned or already existing complex polypharmacy
Medicines whose effects and tolerability are strongly influenced by pharmacogenetic factors
Patients with adverse drug reactions or insufficient response to therapy
Anyone who would like to check for possible risks and intolerances as a preventative measure
Our services
Personalized medication for your patients
PGxProfile
Pharmacogenetic profile
The PGxProfil presents the test results for 21 genes, 113 genetic variants, and 112 active substances in a structured report –including phenotypes, clinically relevant consequences, and possible therapeutic measures.
Your patient will also receive an easy-to-understand version that explains the influence of individual genetic predisposition on metabolism and strengthens confidence in the therapy.
InteractionsCheck
Turning theory into reality
To help you put the test results into practice, you will receive a free VIP license* for PGXpert InteractionCheck. Monitor potential interactions between medications, nutrients, and genetic variants effectively and reliable.
Register now and download the iOS/Android app.
* License valid for three months after activation.
Procedure
A few simple steps to achieve results
1. Preparation
Download the necessary forms (declaration of consent, examination order, cost coverage, information sheet).
2. Sample collection & commissioning
Inform patients in accordance with the German Genetic Diagnosis Act (GenDG), take blood or saliva samples, and send them to the laboratory together with the completed forms.
3. Analysis in the laboratory
Sample DNA is pharmacogenetically analyzed in the laboratory and an individual PGx profile is generated.
4. Personalize medication
Receive PGx profile, discuss findings with patient if necessary, and adjust medication individually – for personalized, safe, and effective therapy.
Pharmacogenetics (PGx)
Drug therapy based on the latest scientific findings
A Europe-wide study involving 7,000 patients proves that 30% of side effects can be prevented by taking pharmacogenetics into account.
%
fewer side effects
Dr. Carina Mathey
Pharmacist
Contact
Provide your patients with personalized medication!
We are happy to answer your questions and assist you in ordering a PGx test for your patients.
Email: pharmakogenetik@lifeandbrain.de | Phone.: +49 (0) 228 6885 424
Our services for scientific research
We also offer pharmacogenetic interpretations within clinical studies. Please contact us.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions, simply explained
How long does it take to get the results?
The processing time from receiving the blood or saliva sample to providing the PGx profile is approximately two weeks.
Will the costs be covered by health insurance?
In general, the patient bears the costs of the preventive examination themselves. Under certain circumstances, the health insurance company may cover the costs if there is a diagnostic issue. We therefore recommend consulting with your health insurance company in advance and, if necessary, submitting an application for coverage of the costs.
How does the sampling process work?
You can extract the sample in two ways:
- Blood sample according to the standard process at your facility
- Saliva sample preferred with GenoTek Oragene OG-600
Then send the samples to Life & Brain GmbH.
Should a PGx test be repeated during the course of treatment?
A pharmacogenetic test is usually only necessary once in a lifetime, as genetic makeup does not change. It only needs to be repeated if new relevant genes or markers are included in the diagnostics.
Who can order a PGx test?
Any general practitioner or specialist can request a pharmacogenetic test.
Which drugs are PGx-relevant?
PGx-Untersuchung sind insbesondere bei Arzneimitteln sinnvoll, deren Wirkung und Verträglichkeit stark von genetischen Variationen abhängen. Mit unserem Pharmakogenetik-Check können Sie prüfen, welche Wirkstoff bei der Untersuchung berücksichtigt werden.
Is PGx testing suitable for every patient?
In recipients of bone marrow, liver, or kidney transplants, the results may be distorted by the donor’s genetics. The same applies to patients who have received a blood transfusion in the last six weeks. In these cases, the test is not reliable, so no pharmacogenetic testing can be performed.
How reliable are the results?
The results are based on the PGXperts database, which is regularly updated under a certified quality management system in accordance with EN ISO 13485. It contains only evidence-based information from internationally recognized sources such as CPIC, DPWG, SEFF, and PharmGKB, as well as recommendations from regulatory authorities such as the EMA, FDA, HCSC, PMDA, and SwissMedic.