The image below shows how individuals prescribed the same drug for the same diagnosis can have different responses.

With a pharmacogenomics test, a prescriber will receive a report detailing what types of genes you have and how your body will respond to certain medications. Taking this and other factors (your diet, other medications, etc.) into account, your prescriber will be able to select the most appropriate medication for you the first time. This will reduce the risk of taking a medication that will either make you sick (side effect) or will be ineffective. Pharmacogenomics is all about getting the right drug to the right person.

 

Because your genetic make-up is considered stable, you will most likely only need one pharmacogenomic test in your life.