Pharmacogenetics and the role of the pharmacist

Individuals respond differently to drug therapy, both in terms of beneficial and adverse effects. Important factors that contribute to the variability in outcome of drug therapy include the patient's health profile, prognosis, disease severity, quality of drug prescribing and dispensing, compliance with pharmacotherapy, and the genetic profile of the patient. This article provides an overview of current thinking and experience on the application of pharmacogenetic concepts. In our view, the future of pharmacogenetics needs a strong implementation in the practice of pharmacy. Science will continue to make progress, and it is up to the profession to fit genetic concepts into practice. There are many possibilities in this field for the pharmacist to emphasize his abilities as a health care professional. In the next few years, it will be important for pharmacists to update their knowledge. When practical and ethical issues are solved, pharmacists should be ready to implement "pharmacogenetic management."