Pharmacogenomics and Precision Medicine in Psychiatry: A Comprehensive Review
Abstract
Three primary phenotypes in psychiatry have been the focus of pharmacogenetic studies: the development of side effects related to psychotropic drug treatment, the clinical effectiveness of antipsychotic drugs, and the efficacy of antidepressant medications. Pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic effects are the two categories into which pharmacogenetic studies of antidepressants can be divided. Genetic variations that impact antidepressant metabolism can alter pharmacokinetic parameters like plasma drug concentration and half-life. Pharmacodynamics may be changed by polymorphisms that impact the expression or operation of receptors and signal transduction molecules in the brain. Changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics can impact antidepressant effectiveness and adverse effects. Using molecular genetic techniques offers a new way to analyze the variability in the response to psychotropic drugs. Traditionally known as "pharmacogenetics," this area of study offers several unique benefits for identifying informative correlates of psychotropic drug response. This shift from a one-size-fits-all approach to a targeted, patient-specific strategy holds the potential to revolutionize psychiatric care, providing more effective and efficient treatments. Additionally, precision medicine in psychiatry contributes to reducing trial-and-error prescribing, ultimately improving patient outcomes and the overall quality of mental health care. Student, CMR C.
Keywords: Pharmacogenetics, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Antidepressants, Antipsychotics
