Pharmacogenomics: questions and concerns

Authors: Mahlknecht, Ulrich¹; Voelter-Mahlknecht, Susanne²

Source: Current Medical Research and Opinion, Volume 21, Number 7, July 2005 , pp. 1041-1048(8)

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Abstract:

The progressively aging population in the western world, rising socioeconomic expenditure and increasing costs for the treatment of adverse drug reactions, lead to increasing pressure on public spending. The public acceptance of pharmacogenomics is high, therefore, because it promises individualized safe and effective treatment at lower cost. Pharmacogenomics studies the genetic polymorphisms that underlie the variability in drug response between individuals. Despite the great benefits being awaited from this new field, a number of ethical, social and legal concerns arise, which demand rapid strict international regulations in order to prevent discrimination or harm of any kind from society, industry, groups or individuals.

Keywords: GENETIC POLYMORPHISMS; GENETIC TESTING; PERSONALISED MEDICINE; PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY; PHARMACOGENOMICS; SOCIAL MEDICINE

Document Type: Commentary

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1185/030079905X50633

Affiliations: 1: University of Heidelberg Medical Center, Department of Hematology/Oncology, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany 2: University of Mainz, Department of Occupational Medicine, Obere Zahlbacher Str. 67, 55131 Mainz, Germany

Publication date: 2005-07-01

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