There is a new test available for mental health professionals to assist in the development of a treatment plan to help tackle mental illness.
GeneSight is an advanced genetic testing tool that can be used to analyze DNA in order to get customized medication recommendations.
With this test, a mental health professional can determine exactly how your body reacts to medications and which medications are best for your specific DNA makeup. GeneSight testing helps to avoid the trial-and-error nature of mental health medications.
Pharmacogenomics, which refers to the use of genomic sequencing, is not a new branch in the world of science. This particular field has been growing for some time and has leveraged DNA testing to study many different disorders including an individual’s reactions to medications. As a result, researchers recognized that this technology could be utilized to identify the most effective psychotropics to help with mental health disorders.
From studies around pharmacogenomics, Myriad Genetics developed the GeneSight Psychotropic test. This product was developed in a clinical laboratory and is backed by multiple peer-reviewed studies and clinical trials, including evidence of higher remission rates amongst those who took the test. GeneSight analyzes clinically important variations that may impact how you metabolize and respond to certain medications. The end result is the ability to provide clinicians with information about dosage adjustments, medications that are less likely to work, or those that might increase side effects.
This test is promoted for people who require treatments for conditions that include:
- Depression or major depressive disorder
- Anxiety disorders
- Mood disorders
- Bipolar disorders
Here at Aloha Integrative Health, we are pleased to offer GeneSight as a viable tool to help navigate the most effective medications for you. The GeneSight test is quick and easy. At our office, we will swab the inside of your cheek to collect the DNA sample which is sent to GeneSight clinical lab for analysis. GeneSight will then send the results back to us in a few days at which point we will review them with you and discuss a personalized treatment plan.
Currently, some insurance plans will cover the cost of a GeneSight test, but this varies so please be sure to check with your insurance for specific questions. Medicare (Part B) and Medicaid typically will cost you $0 out of pocket. Meanwhile, with commercial and other insurance you can expect they will only cover a portion of the costs.
If you are interested in learning more about Aloha Integrative Health and the use of GeneSight, simply request a free consultation to get started today.