This session will introduce the fundamentals of pharmacogenomics—how genetic variation influences an individual’s response to medicines—and its growing role in delivering personalised healthcare. Pharmacogenomics uses genomic information to predict drug efficacy, metabolism, and risk of adverse effects, enabling clinicians to optimise prescribing and improve patient outcomes. As pharmacogenomic testing becomes more accessible within the NHS, understanding these principles is increasingly important for pharmacists and the wider healthcare team.
The session will then showcase the UK Clinical Pharmacy Association (UKCPA) Handbook of Pharmacogenomics, a free, evidence-based online resource designed to support the interpretation and application of pharmacogenetic results in clinical practice. Developed by expert pharmacists, the handbook provides practical guidance to aid medicines optimisation at the point of care.
Attendees will gain an overview of the resource, its structure, and how it can be integrated into everyday clinical decision-making.

• Understand the fundamentals of pharmacogenomics, including how genetic variation affects drug response, efficacy, and safety in clinical practice.
• Learn how to navigate and apply guidance from the UK Clinical Pharmacy Association Handbook of Pharmacogenomics to support prescribing decisions.
• Identify opportunities to integrate pharmacogenomics into prescribing pathways to improve patient outcomes.