Most pharmacogenomic tests include the DPYD gene. This gene affects the ability to process certain chemotherapies that are commonly used in treating colorectal cancer, metastatic breast cancer and others. It is estimated that about 1300 people die each year in the US because they are given 5-fluorouracil or capecitabine without being properly tested first. In […]
Jeri
Patient Testimonials
Looking back on 2023, I am thankful for the patients who trusted me to assist them with their medication issues and allowed me to do what I am passionate about…pharmacogenomics! I look forward to helping more of you in 2024!! Parent S of child, “I just can’t thank you enough for helping us out! I […]
Iodine, Thyroid and Ovaries
Iodine. Thyroid. Ovaries. Does one of these seem like it doesn’t belong? The three can actually be interconnected. You may know that iodine is important to thyroid function, but did you know that the ovaries also need iodine? In fact, ovaries contain the second largest concentration of iodine in the body after the thyroid! An […]
Over the counter medications and genetics
Pharmacogenetic testing only benefits those who take prescription medications, right? Wrong! Pharmacogenetic testing can help inform the safe use of over-the-counter medications like NSAIDs (ibuprofen and naproxen) and proton pump inhibitors (lansoprazole, omeprazole, esomeprazole). PGx testing can also tell you about risks with a common cold remedy: dextromethorphan. Also known as “DM” and “DXM”, dextromethorphan […]
Genetics and Gout
Do you need another reason to cut back on high fructose corn syrup or optimize your gut health? View my 2-minute YouTube video on gout. Genetics and diet both play a role. Change the factor you have control over.
Pharmacogenetic Testing Saves Lives
“I’ve had more damage happen from the medications than from my actual conditions” – patient and advocate, Christine Von Raesfeld. Not sure about pharmacogenomics? Take a listen to some compelling patient stories. I love listening to and learning from podcasts, especially while driving. The PGx for Pharmacists Podcast is a great way to learn more […]
Introductory Videos
I have created three short introductory videos to introduce myself and explain a little more about my business, pharmacogenomics and genetic testing, as well as enzymes and receptors. You can find the videos on YouTube.
Do you or a loved one take tamoxifen?
Do you or a loved one take tamoxifen? If so, read on! Tamoxifen has been approved for both the treatment of breast cancer and the prevention of breast cancer. I recently spoke with a patient with a family history of breast cancer who was going to meet with an oncologist and consider starting tamoxifen for […]
Genetic knowledge can prevent medication side effects
What if I told you that pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing could have potentially prevented ibuprofen from causing a spontaneous femur fracture? Years ago a patient began taking 400mg of ibuprofen at night. Eventually the patient developed low hemoglobin due to ulcerations in the stomach. The patient was placed on omeprazole to help the ulcers heal. The […]
Waiting for cocoa…
“She waited 400 years for a hot chocolate!” A hospital employee uttered this with a very incredulous tone when I stepped forward to pick up my hot chocolate from the Lakota counter. I just smiled under my mask. My first thought, what the heck is wrong with hot chocolate? I love it! Anytime I am […]