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Chronic pain can silently yet severely impact quality of life - affecting physical functioning, emotional well-being, financial status and personal relationships. For many, achieving satisfactory pain control can become an uphill battle, as the complexity of pain pathways pose a significant challenge in both acute and chronic conditions.
Let's first explore the three main categories of commonly prescribed pain relief drugs - opioids, non-opioids, and dual usage drugs (antidepressants and antiepileptics) - for a better understanding of pain management.
Types of drugs used for pain relief
Opioids, Non-Opioids, and Dual Usage Drugs
Opoids
Morphine, Tramadol, Oxycodone, and Codeine are a few examples of opioid medications, often used for moderate to severe pain. They work by interacting with opioid receptors in the brain, blocking the sensation of pain.
Non-Opoids
Antidepressants and Antiepileptics
Despite these numerous options, achieving effective and side-effect-free pain control for a patient can be very challenging. The same drug or dose of a drug does not work equally well for everyone, and people respond differently to different medications. The reason? Our unique genetic makeup.
The Role of Genes in Drug Metabolism
People may respond variably to the same medication due to variations in their genes. For instance, some individuals may feel excessively drowsy after taking opioids, whilst others may not.
With codeine, for example, the drug works when it is metabolised by our bodies and converted into morphine. Differences in our genes affect how quickly this process happens. Specifically, differences in the CYP2D6 gene means that some people might be what's called "ultra-rapid metabolisers" and therefore suffer severe side effects as morphine hits their bloodstream very quickly. This can also mean the pain-relieving effects are short-lived for some.
Similarly, non-opioid painkillers may provide relief quickly but wear off soon for some, while others experience prolonged relief. Genetic variants can also increase the risk of side effects, addiction, and damage to internal organs from toxicity.
The Promise of Pharmacogenomics
Pharmacogenomic testing intends to bridge these gaps and inequalities in pain management by personalising medication plans. The science of pharmacogenomics studies how a person's genetic makeup influences their response to drugs. This cutting-edge technology allows us to understand how a patient's genetic profile could affect their responses to certain medications, improving the safety and efficacy of pain management.
Understanding a patient’s genetic makeup may help in selecting the most suitable medication type and dosage, reducing the trial-and-error approach currently prevalent in pain management. It could end suffering from unnecessary side effects and offer more effective and faster pain relief.
At Medgene Precision Health, we understand that pain is not just a physical sensation; it's a comprehensive experience that affects your life in many ways. Our mission is to offer you the most current, scientifically validated tools to help navigate your pain management.
Remember, you are not alone in this pain management journey, and the use of pharmacogenomics in pain control remains an exciting and innovative area of research, full of potential and hope.
Together, we can tailor a pain management plan to fit your body's unique needs.
Contact us on 07771 084322 to schedule your free 20-minute consultation as a first step to a life less burdened by pain. Or follow the link below to book online.
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