Genetic tests aim to curb adverse reactions to medications

Testing patients for gene variations is controversial, but could could avoid some of the 700,000 serious drug reactions in the U.S. each year, some experts say. Proponents of the tests, say they also could help doctors rely less on trial and error in choosing the right drug and the right dosage for individual patients. Some major medical associations have been slow to endorse the testing, mainly because there are no large, randomized controlled trials showing the technique significantly improves patient care. [Subscription required.]