Pharmacogenetics: Ethical Issues
Published: Sat, 20 September 2003People often respond differently to the same medicine. Few medicines are effective for everyone; all may cause adverse reactions and occasionally death. Research in pharmacogenetics investigates how differences in our genes can affect the way in which we respond to medicines.
Pharmacogenetics has the potential to improve both the safety and efficacy of medicines. However, both the research and its applications raise important ethical, legal, social and regulatory issues. This 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.
Last Updated Wed, 18 August 2004
