KUTV

Rx Match is a test that analyze and interprets each patient;s unique genetic makeup to help doctors determine which medication and dosage might work best with the patient's genes.

"Rx Match is a molecular test that we use to look at a person's DNA to learn how the metabolize certain drugs," said Jason Gillman, Cancer Genomics Director, Intermountain Healthcare.

Variations in a person's DNA can impact how they metabolize and respond to different drugs. RX Match analyzes those variants using pharmacogenomics, a cutting edge field of precision medicine that studies how genes can relate to a patient's response of medication.

The test is a cheek swab, that is then sent to a lab. The results are returned to the doctor about 7 to 14 days later.

The RX Match report includes a response score on antidepressants, opioids, statins, immunosuppressants, antiabetics and many others.

By incorporating genomic information, doctors can pinpoint which medications are most likely to work for their patients. This may help reduce repeat visits for drug side effects.

:There are options there are different ways that we can be more precise in the ways that we prescribe. If a drug is not working or you feel like you might not be on the right drug speak with your physician to see if RX Match is a good match for you," said Gillman.

Joan Eggert has a history of hypertension.

"I've had high blood pressure since age 22. I've been on all kinds of medications up to three or more at once with not really great results," said Joan.

She was placed on a new blood pressure drug shortly before she went on vacation. While she was scuba diving in Fiji, she started to experience shortness of breath.

"Heard the gurgles in my lungs and knew I had Immersion Pulmonary Edema because I am a hyperbaric doctor," said Joan. "Finally we got to shore and after hours on oxygen, I was ok.

Joan was determined to figure out what went wrong. Eventually, she had an RX Match test done.

The test told her she didn't respond well to the medication she was on. Doctors switched her medication and now she is doing better.

"I finally got the answer to my question; the medication I was switched to, I don't metabolize properly," said Joan.

Talk with your doctor if you are interested in learning more about RX Match.

For more information, click here.

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Check Your Health: How RX Match can help find the right medication for you - KUTV 2News