How do genetics impact drug response?

Genetics play a crucial role in an individual's response to medications, and this influence can manifest in various ways, leading to differences in drug metabolism and efficacy among individuals. Genetic variations, particularly those found in genes encoding drug-metabolizing enzymes, transporters, and drug targets, can result in variations in how a person absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes a drug.

For instance, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes such as CYP450 enzymes can lead to some individuals metabolizing a drug too quickly or too slowly, resulting in either reduced therapeutic effects or increased risk of adverse drug reactions. Therefore, understanding these genetic factors can help healthcare providers personalize medication regimens for improved safety and efficacy. This concept is fundamental to the field of pharmacogenomics, which examines how genes affect a person’s response to drugs and helps in tailoring treatments based on genetic profiles.

The other options do not provide an accurate representation of the relationship between genetics and drug response. Genetics indeed has a significant impact, influencing more than just dosage or drug pricing.