What does 'pharmacogenomics' study?

Pharmacogenomics is a field that focuses on understanding how an individual's genetic makeup influences their response to drugs. This discipline combines pharmacology, which is the study of how drugs affect the body, with genomics, the study of genes and their functions. By analyzing genetic variations among individuals, pharmacogenomics seeks to unravel the complexities of drug efficacy and toxicity, leading to more personalized approaches to medication.

The emphasis is on the idea that genetic differences can significantly alter how a person metabolizes and responds to specific drugs. For example, certain genetic markers can predict whether a patient will benefit from a particular treatment or experience adverse effects. This knowledge can guide healthcare providers in selecting the most appropriate medications and dosages for patients based on their unique genetic profiles, ultimately improving outcomes and reducing the risk of side effects.

In contrast, while the other options touch on various relevant topics in pharmacology and health, they do not accurately capture the essence of pharmacogenomics. For instance, the interaction between drugs and their formulations pertains more to pharmacology than genetic influence, while the development of new therapies does not specifically address how genetics affects drug response. Meanwhile, considering both genetic and environmental factors is broader than the focused study of pharmacogenomics, which centers explicitly on genetics in