What is pharmacogenomics primarily concerned with?

Pharmacogenomics is primarily concerned with examining how an individual's genetic makeup affects their response to medications. This field of study explores the relationship between genes and drug efficacy or toxicity, allowing for a more personalized approach to treatment. By understanding the genetic variations that influence drug metabolism, efficacy, and adverse effects, healthcare providers can tailor pharmacological therapies to optimize patient outcomes. This individualized treatment has the potential to improve drug response and reduce the risk of side effects, making pharmacogenomics a critical component in the development of personalized medicine.

While studying drug interactions, creating new pharmaceuticals, and examining the side effects of medications are important aspects of pharmacology, they do not specifically focus on the influence of genetics in drug responses, which is the core emphasis of pharmacogenomics.