posted 09-23-2003 12:11 PM         

Pharmacogenetics - the study of how genetic variation affects our response to medicines - could promise safe and more effective treatments in the future. But in a Report published today the Nuffield Council argues that it will be necessary to address legitimate concerns if the potential benefits of this important medical technology are to be realised.

Although it is too early to predict whether 'personalised medicines' will become a reality, it is important to encourage discussion of ethical and policy issues raised by the introduction of pharmacogenetics. The Report considers the implications for the research and development of medicines, clinical practice and treatment, and the use and storage of genetic information. It also addresses issues of regulation and public policy.

Copies of the Report are available to download from the Council's website:
www.nuffieldbioethics.org/pharmacogenetics