The study of human genetic material has developed significantly over the last few years. Genetic variants important for the processing of medication and other substances by the human body have been identified. This relatively new branch of research is called "pharmacogenetics". As a competence centre for pharmacogenetics, the Practice for Personalised Medicine at Klinik Hirslanden focuses on the analysis of genes that influence the evaluation and effectiveness of certain drugs.
The varying individual levels of tolerability of medications pose a daily challenge for the treating doctor. In some patients, the administration of a specific drug may have positive effects on the progression of a disease, but in others the initiated therapy is unsuccessful. In some cases, even adverse drug reactions may occur.