Pharmacogenomics (PGx) Testing

Take control of your treatment by reducing harmful drug reactions and cutting down antidepressant side effects.

Why consider PGx testing?

Every person processes medicines differently. While factors like age, lifestyle, and medical history matter, so do your genes. Pharmacogenomics (PGx) looks at your DNA to help clinicians understand how you might respond to certain medications.

How PGx testing may help you

PGx testing is a tool that may support your doctor in choosing medicines that work better for you. It may be useful if you’ve tried medications that didn’t work, caused side effects, or if you’re about to start treatment and want to reduce trial and error.

Fewer side effects

Reduce the chance of adverse drug reactions and side effects.

Avoid ineffective medicines

Avoid medicines that are less likely to work.

Faster treatment results

Find effective treatment options faster.

Is PGx testing right for me?

If you’re unsure whether PGx testing is relevant to you, you can try our self-assessment checklist. It is not a diagnostic tool, but it can help you start a conversation with your doctor.

What medications does a PGx test cover?

At Genomic Diagnotics, our PGx test — the PGx Multi — analyses 18 genes relevant to over 100 medications.

Mental health

Find out how antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics and ADHD medicines may effect you.

Pain management

See how opioids, NSAIDs, and neuropathic pain medication interact with your genes.

Cardiology

Determine how your body reacts to heart health medications, such as clopidogrel and statins.

Gastroenterology

Assess your genetic response to proton pump inhibitors and other reflux medications.

Other health conditions

Discover whether treatment for other areas of health, such as oncology, are working for you.

What our PGx report looks like

Our PGx report gives you and your doctor clear information about how your genes may influence your response to certain medicines.

Download a report sample

What medications does a PGx test cover?

At Genomic Diagnostics, our PGx test, the PGx Multi, analyses 18 genes relevant to over 100 medications.

Dr Kym Mina

Genetic Pathologist and Chief of Genomics, Genomic Diagnostics

In my laboratory work with clinics, I’ve seen how PGx testing can give patients extra answers.

One woman with depression tried several antidepressants, but her symptoms kept getting worse and she ended up in hospital.

PGx testing suggested those medicines may not have been the right fit, so we adjusted her treatment to something that appeared more suitable. Over time, her symptoms improved.

I’ve also seen patients whose main challenge was side effects. One woman’s mood improved on medication, but the nausea and weight loss made her want to stop.

PGx testing indicated her medicine may break down more slowly, which could explain why she felt unwell. By lowering the dose, she was able to keep taking it with fewer side effects.

These experiences show how PGx testing can give doctors useful information to help guide treatment choices

How much does PGx testing cost?

The cost for a PGx test starts at $197 (privately funded).

A test valid your whole life

PGx testing is a one-time test that remains useful for life – simply because your genes don’t change.

Offset costs

The cost can be offset by avoiding unnecessary medications, extra appointments and side effects.

Health insurance rebate

If you are a Medibank Private members with Extras Mental Health cover, you are eligible for a rebate of up to $150.

Frequently asked questions

Resources

Pharmacogenomic Tests Patient Brochure

Pharmacogenomics Medication

Take the guesswork out of your medication

Order your Pharmacogenomics test today and get treatment tailored to your DNA.

Healius Pathology network