- What is PharmaGene +
- Who Can Use PharmaGene +
- Benefits +
- Ordering Process +
- FAQs +
- Downloads +
- References +

Anyone can do a PharmaGene test. The results can be used for existing and future medication recommendations.
You could do a test for your child who isn’t already on medication, to arm yourself and the child with this information for the future.
For those currently on medication, PharmaGene is particularly useful when someone is taking four or more medications at a time, where the likelihood of side effects due to drug-drug interactions is increased. PharmaGene allows for real-time clinical decisions to be made based on the support modelling tool. It allows doctors to tailor an optimal treatment plan using a live portal to modify doses or medications to achieve the lowest risk for negative side effects while still achieving the intended medication outcome.
On average, people 45 years and older take four prescription medications daily. People aged 65-69 take, on average, take 14 prescription medications daily. About 1/5 of prescriptions given to elderly patients aren’t appropriate and negative reactions to medications are responsible for 28% of re-hospitalisations.
How can PharmaGene help me improve my health?
This test may determine that alternative drug therapy is better suited for you. It could be that a different medication would be more effective or less likely to cause side effects. It also eliminates some of the guesswork around choosing your medication. You will be aware upfront of the drugs most suited to you based on your genetic makeup, lifestyle, and current drug regimen.
Will this test give me information about my ancestry or tell me if I will get cancer?
No, this DNA test will not report ancestry information or determine your likelihood of developing diseases, including cancer. This DNA test will only explain how your genes affect your response to specific medications.
How long until I receive the results?
When we receive the saliva sample, it typically takes about 2-3 weeks to process and analyse the DNA. After that, you will receive your report via email.
What if I am not taking any medications currently, is the test still valuable?
It doesn’t matter if you are taking medication currently. This is a once-off test, and the information can be used for drug choices in the future. If you get prescribed a new medication in the future, you and your doctor could use this report to determine what your best medication options are.
What happens to my DNA?
During the analysis process, generally, most of the DNA is consumed. However, should some be leftover following testing, we will store it for five years, in accordance with local regulation.
How is my information kept secure?
Next Biosciences takes the privacy of its clients very seriously and has implemented reasonable security measures to guard against the unauthorised disclosure of private client information in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
Who do I contact if I have questions about my results?
If you have any questions regarding your results, please send us your questions via email to health@nextbio.co.za, and we will ensure that someone from our medical team will get back to you.
Next Biosciences
Ariane Avenue
International Business Gateway
Cnr. New Road and 6th Road
Midrand, South Africa