The Role of the Pediatric Pharmacist in Precision Medicine and Clinical Pharmacogenomics for Children

Abstract

With the initiatives by the National Institutes of Health and the US Food and Drug Administration, pharmacogenomics is transitioning from the laboratory to patient care. Nearly 200 drug products now contain pharmacogenomic information as part of their labeling; many of these products are commonly used in the pediatric population. Because pharmacogenomic testing can provide patient-specific predictors for drug response, pharmacists are positioned to assume a leadership role in pharmacogenomic testing, clinical interpretation of results, and recommendations for individualization of drug therapy. Opportunities for pharmacists exist in both inpatient and outpatient settings, such as pharmacist-managed clinical pharmacogenomics consultation services and educating patients and families about pharmacogenomic testing. Given the potential for genetic and age-dependent factors to influence drug selection and dosing, pediatric pharmacists should be involved in the development of dosing recommendations and interprofessional practice guidelines regarding pharmacogenomic testing in pediatric patients. Opportunities to become knowledgeable and competent in pharmacogenomics extend from coursework as part of the pharmacy curriculum to postgraduate education (e.g., residencies, fellowship, continuing education). The Pediatric Pharmacy Advocacy Group acknowledges a need for increased education of both students and practicing pharmacists with consideration for infants and children.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceived Barriers toward Genetic Testing and Pharmacogenomics among Healthcare Workers in the United Arab Emirates: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…A variety of studies echoed the role of pharmacists in leading the implementation of pharmacogenomics within their work settings [ 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 , 71 , 72 ]. Given the United Arab Emirates’ endeavors to follow a multidisciplinary approach for project implementation, ensuring harmony, commitment, and unity, including a large variety of healthcare worker specialties in our cohort was very important [ 73 , 74 , 75 , 76 , 77 , 78 , 79 ].…”

Pediatric pharmacogenomics: challenges and opportunities: on behalf of the Sanford Children’s Genomic Medicine Consortium

“…• Workforce Training and Development. While not restricted to pediatrics, one of the largest existing barriers is the lack of standard practice models and experiential training available for medical professionals [38,39]. The SCGMC is poised to consider projects to evaluate practice models perhaps including collaborations between pharmacists and genetic counselors where each discipline may bring their expertise to the clinic/ bedside to advance prescriber and patient understanding of clinical PGx [40].…”

<p>Pharmacogenomic Testing In Pediatrics: Navigating The Ethical, Social, And Legal Challenges</p>

“…Nursing and pharmacy educators and schools have recognized training needs and are working towards integrating content into curricula and other learning opportunities 168–171. Pediatric pharmacists can help integrate PGx results into therapeutic decision-making and work with both providers and families 172. In some places, clinical PGx consultation services have been established 96,173.…”