July 2024
Ampath | ampath.co.za
Introduction
Pre-emptive pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing is increasingly recognised for its ability to:
- Reduce adverse drug reactions
- Improve medication adherence
- Optimise clinical outcomes
Ampath's PHARMA test screens for approximately 120 actionable variants across 36 pharmacogenes known to affect the metabolism of commonly prescribed medications.
What’s New in the PHARMA Report
Ampath’s updated pharmacogenomic reporting includes:
- A comprehensive PDF report featuring each patient’s drug metaboliser phenotypes and clinical interpretations
- Enhanced evidence-based filtering, ensuring that only clinically actionable findings are reported (disease risk alleles have been removed)
- Subscription-free clinician access to the GenXys™ Precision Prescribing tools:
- ReviewGx™
- TreatGx™
- Pharmacogenomic counselling services now available for patients and clinicians
GenXys™ Precision Prescribing Tools: Key Benefits
- Generates clinical PGx reports by integrating the patient’s genotype with their medical profile:
- Current medications
- Allergies
- Liver/renal function
- Comorbid conditions
- Provides real-time recommendations on:
- First-line or alternate drug choices
- Dose adjustments
- Highlights any drug-drug or drug-gene interactions for each patient
- Identifies patients who would benefit from PGx testing based on their current medications or medical history
Additional Information on the PHARMA Panel
✅ Purpose of the Test
- To assist with drug selection
- To personalise dosage
- To prevent adverse drug reactions
✅ Genes Targeted
(List available in full on request)
Includes:
- CYP family genes (e.g., CYP2C9, CYP2D6, CYP3A4)
- Drug transporters and receptors (e.g., ABCB1, SLCO1B1, DRD2, OPRM1)
- Enzymes and coagulation-related genes (e.g., VKORC1, F5, F2)
- Many more
✅ Sample Requirements
- Buccal swab
- OR EDTA peripheral blood sample
✅ Test Mnemonic
PHARMA
✅ Cost (2024)
- R2,800.00
✅ Turnaround Time
- 10 working days from receipt at the NRL Genetics Laboratory
✅ Pharmacogenomic Counselling
- Available to both patients and clinicians
- Appointments can be booked via:
geneticsclinic@ampath.co.za - Counselling is billed separately
📧 For test enquiries or clinical guidance, contact:
pgx@ampath.co.za
📘 For more in-depth information, see AmpathChat No. 84 on the Ampath website.
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