Direct-to-consumer genetic testing has been around for approximately 20 years. Pharmacogenomic testing is a specialised form of this testing which informs the risk of developing particular toxicities or showing a lack of response when prescribed certain drugs. These tests were widely available in the US via companies such as 23andMe1 but, somewhat controversially, public access has been recently restricted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).2 More limited, but similar, testing is also available in the UK, though consumers are expected to speak to a ‘genetics trained’ advisor first.
