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London, UK – A groundbreaking study from Queen Mary University of London has revealed that testing for just three genes could potentially prevent 75% of avoidable adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with certain medications. The research, published in PLOS Medicine, analyzed over 1.3 million ADR reports submitted to the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) Yellow Card scheme.
The study found that 9% of all reported ADRs are linked to drugs where side effect risk is influenced by a patient’s genetic makeup. Of this 9%, a significant 75% were associated with variations in three key genes: CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and SLCO1B1, which play crucial roles in how the body processes medication.
Over the past 60 years, the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme has recorded over one million reports of drug side effects. Previous studies have indicated that over 99% of individuals possess genetic variants that could lead to adverse reactions to specific drugs. These reactions can range from mild discomfort to severe complications, including prolonged hospital stays and even death, costing the NHS an estimated £2 billion annually.
The research, led by Dr. Emma Magavern, highlighted that the medications with the highest volume of potentially preventable ADRs were treatments for psychiatric disorders (47%) and cardiovascular problems (24%). The study also noted that patients experiencing PGx-mitigable ADRs were more likely to be male, older, and experience severe but non-fatal side effects.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that using genetic information to guide prescribing, such as adjusting dosages or selecting alternative medications, can effectively prevent ADRs and improve patient outcomes. This study underscores the potential of integrating pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing into routine clinical practice to enhance medication safety and efficacy.
Dr. Emma Magavern stated, “It is important to understand the landscape of side effects reported nationally over the past half century to elucidate the impact that prospective use of genetic testing to personalize prescribing may have in the UK.”
Professor Sir Mark Caulfield, co-author of the study, emphasized the significance of the findings, stating, “This is the largest analysis of the potential role of pharmacogenomics in adverse reactions from a national spontaneous reporting system. It suggests that 9% of these reports may relate to our genetic make-up. This could be avoidable if we had measured the genetic make-up of the person before prescribing these medicines. It is time for the NHS to consider adopting pre-emptive testing for known genes that interact with medications.”
June Raine, MHRA Chief Executive, added, “This study shows how reports of suspected side effects to the Yellow Card scheme can help us better understand and prevent serious side effects, including those linked to genetic factors. This research also reinforces the importance of our pioneering Yellow Card Biobank with Genomics England, which will help us take a more personalized, proactive approach to patient safety and make medicines safer for everyone.”
The researchers believe that widespread adoption of genetic testing could significantly reduce the burden of ADRs, leading to improved patient outcomes and substantial cost savings for the healthcare system.
More information: Emma F. Magavern et al. Pharmacogenetics and adverse drug reports: insights from a United Kingdom national pharmacovigilance database., PLOS Medicine (2025). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004565
Disclaimer: This news article is based on the provided research and should not be taken as medical advice. Genetic testing and medication decisions should always be made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals. The findings of this study represent potential benefits and further research may be needed before widespread clinical implementation.
