THE EVOLUTION AND IMPORTANCE OF PHARMACOGENOMICS IN ANTIEPILEPTIC DRUG THERAPY: BRIDGING THE GAP IN INDIA

Abstract

Pharmacogenomics the study of how genes affect drug response has opened doors to safer more personalized treatments in many areas of medicine. Yet, in the context of antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy, especially in India, its full potential remains largely untapped. Over the past decade, research has revealed important genetic variations, such as those in CYP2C9, CYP2C19, HLA-B*1502, and SCN1A, that influence the efficacy and safety of AEDs like phenytoin, carbamazepine and valproate. Despite this, the clinical use of pharmacogenomics testing in epilepsy treatment is still rare across Indian healthcare settings.

This article traces the global evolution of pharmacogenomics in AED therapy from 2011 to 2023, highlighting key scientific milestones and growing global momentum. It critically examines why India continues to lag behind in implementing these advances pointing to barriers such as lack of awareness, limited access to testing, and inadequate representation in pharmacy curricula. Drawing from both literature and lived experience in pharmacy education, this paper calls for the urgent integration of pharmacogenomics into academic and clinical practice. Only through education, collaboration and sustained research can we bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world application, ensuring that epilepsy care in India becomes safer, smarter, and more precise.