Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about pharmacogenomics testing and how ReasonShield PGx can help you.
General
What is pharmacogenomics (PGx)?
Pharmacogenomics is the study of how your genes affect your response to medications. By analyzing specific genetic variants, we can predict how you might metabolize certain drugs, helping your doctor choose the right medication at the right dose.
Why should I get a PGx test?
PGx testing can help avoid adverse drug reactions, reduce trial-and-error prescribing, and improve medication effectiveness. Studies show that over 90% of people have at least one genetic variant that affects their drug response.
Is PGx testing right for me?
PGx testing is beneficial for anyone taking or about to start medications, especially in categories like antidepressants, pain medications, cardiovascular drugs, and more. It's particularly valuable if you've experienced side effects or poor response to medications in the past.
Testing & Results
What genes do you test?
We analyze 21 clinically validated pharmacogenes including CYP2D6, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP3A5, CYP2B6, DPYD, TPMT, NUDT15, SLCO1B1, UGT1A1, G6PD, NAT2, ABCG2, VKORC1, CYP4F2, and 4 critical HLA alleles (HLA-A*31:01, HLA-B*15:02, HLA-B*57:01, HLA-B*58:01). All genes have established CPIC clinical guidelines.
How many drugs are covered?
Our reports cover 870+ medications with 5,100+ clinical annotations and 2,100+ specific dosing recommendations. We cover multiple therapeutic areas including psychiatry, cardiology, pain management, oncology, gastroenterology, and infectious disease.
How long does it take to get results?
If you upload existing genetic data (VCF file), results are typically available within minutes. If you need new genetic testing, results are usually ready within 5-7 business days after the lab receives your sample.
Can I use data from 23andMe or AncestryDNA?
Yes! You can download your raw genetic data from these services and upload it to our platform. We'll analyze the relevant pharmacogenomic variants and generate your personalized report.
Understanding Your Report
What do the metabolizer statuses mean?
Metabolizer status indicates how quickly your body processes medications. Poor Metabolizers may need lower doses, Intermediate Metabolizers may need adjusted doses, Normal Metabolizers typically respond as expected, and Rapid/Ultra-rapid Metabolizers may need higher doses or alternative medications.
What's the difference between PK and PD genes?
Pharmacokinetic (PK) genes affect how your body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and eliminates drugs. Pharmacodynamic (PD) genes affect how drugs interact with their targets in your body. Both are important for predicting drug response.
Should I stop taking my medications based on my results?
No, never stop or change medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Your PGx report provides information to help guide medication decisions, but any changes should be made under medical supervision.
Privacy & Security
Is my genetic data secure?
Yes. We use enterprise-grade security including AES-256 encryption for data at rest and in transit. We are fully HIPAA compliant and undergo regular security audits.
Will my genetic data be sold or shared?
No. Your genetic data is never sold or shared with third parties without your explicit consent. You maintain full control over your data and can request deletion at any time.
Can my results affect my insurance?
The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) protects against discrimination by health insurers and employers based on genetic information. However, GINA doesn't cover life, disability, or long-term care insurance.
Healthcare Providers
How can I share results with my doctor?
You can share your results through our secure provider sharing feature, download a PDF report to bring to appointments, or use your wallet card for quick reference.
Will my doctor know how to use PGx results?
Our reports include clinical recommendations based on CPIC guidelines that most healthcare providers can interpret. We also provide resources for providers who want to learn more about PGx-guided prescribing.
Can healthcare organizations integrate with your platform?
Yes, we offer enterprise solutions with LIS integration (HL7v2), FHIR APIs, and white-label reporting options. Contact our sales team for more information.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.