What does "pharmacogenomics" study?

Pharmacogenomics is the study of how an individual's genetic makeup influences their response to drugs. This field combines pharmacology, which is the study of drugs and their effects, with genomics, the study of genes and their functions. As individuals may metabolize and respond to medications differently due to variations in their genetic material, pharmacogenomics aims to tailor drug treatments to the genetic profiles of patients. This personalized approach can lead to more effective medications with fewer side effects, as it allows for the optimization of drug dosages and selection based on genetic predispositions.

The focus on the influence of genetics distinguishes pharmacogenomics from other fields of study. While the effects of drugs on populations and the historical use of medications are relevant to broader pharmacology and medical history, they do not specifically address the genetic factors that affect drug efficacy and safety on an individual level. The development of new medications is also broader and encompasses many aspects of drug development, not limited to genetic considerations. Thus, the focal point of pharmacogenomics on the relationship between genetics and drug response is what makes this answer correct.