Pharmacogenomic tests are a type of genetic test. They’re intended to help predict which medication might be most effective for a patient, based on their genes.
These tests are relatively new, and they’re not always accurate. Most psychiatrists don’t use them as part of their standard practice.
If you’re curious about pharmacogenomic testing, talk to your provider. They can help you understand the pros and cons and determine if taking one would help you find the right medication for your needs.
Our genes can influence everything from our appearance to our vulnerability to certain health conditions. But did you know that your genes may also impact how you respond to medication?
Researchers in the field of pharmacogenomics have discovered that our genes may affect how our bodies absorb and react to certain chemicals. This may be why different people can take the same medication and have very different results.
A pharmacogenomic test is a form of genetic testing. It may help your psychiatric provider know which medications might be most effective for you based on your genetic blueprint. It could also help you avoid unwanted side effects. However, it’s important to remember that pharmacogenetic testing is relatively new. There’s limited research on how accurate the tests are, and often their results are inconsistent.
Most psychiatrists don’t rely on pharmacogenomic tests to make treatment decisions. However, if you’re interested in taking one, talk to your provider. They can help you explore the pros and cons and understand how your genetics may impact your treatment experience.
Reasons a psychiatrist might recommend genetic testing
Although genetic testing isn’t standard practice for most psychiatrists, a provider might recommend it for a few reasons. For example:
You’ve tried several mental health medications, but none have given you the relief you’d hoped for.
You’ve experienced unwanted side effects from medication.
You have complex medical and/or mental health needs.
You’re being treated for depression (if you have certain genes, your body may have trouble breaking down some antidepressants).
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What to expect from a pharmacogenomic test
The pharmacogenomic testing process is relatively simple. It usually involves a blood or saliva test or a swab from the inside of your cheek. Here’s how it works:
Blood tests: A medical professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm. You might feel a small pinch or sting, but the test usually takes less than five minutes.
Saliva tests: You’ll be instructed to spit into a tube, or your saliva will be collected by a pad or swab. Prior to the test, you shouldn’t eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum for 30 minutes.
Cheek swabs: A medical professional will gently rub the inside of your cheek with a pad or swab. You may be asked to rinse your mouth before the test is performed.
Once you receive your results, you and your provider can talk about what they mean. Keep in mind that pharmacogenetic tests can’t diagnose mental health concerns or tell the psychiatric provider definitively what medications will work for you. But they may shed some light on how certain medications may affect you.
Things to know about genetics in psychiatry
If you’re considering pharmacogenomic testing, keep these things in mind:
In the future, pharmacogenomic testing may be used more broadly in psychiatry. But today, it’s not something that most providers recommend as part of their standard practice. If you’re interested in taking one of these tests, you may need to initiate the conversation with your provider. You can also explore at-home tests you can order on your own.
Pharmacogenomic testing can’t be used as a diagnostic tool, and your results won’t tell you anything about your physical or mental health. These tests are designed to uncover which medications might be most effective for you based on your genetic makeup.
Insurance coverage for genetic testing can vary. Your plan might be more likely to cover it if it’s deemed medically necessary. However, you may need to pay out of pocket for pharmacogenomic testing, and costs can range from $50–$2,000.
Pharmacogenomics, like most new technologies, may raise some ethical concerns. For example, you might wonder what sort of privacy protections are in place when sharing your genetic information. While there are laws that prohibit the unauthorized sharing of health information, data breaches aren’t uncommon.
How to talk to a provider about genetic testing
If you’re curious about genetic testing, these questions can help you start the conversation with your provider:
“What are your thoughts on the role of genetic testing in psychiatry? Do you think it could help me find an effective medication, or avoid unwanted side effects?”
“In your opinion, are there downsides to genetic testing? Are there any risks I should be aware of?”
“How could the results of my genetic test inform my treatment plan? What other sorts of information do you use to make treatment decisions?”
“If I do an at-home genetic test, can you help me interpret my results?”
Some patients believe that when they do a genetic test, it’s going to tell them exactly what medications they can and cannot take. However, this isn’t the case because the science just isn’t there yet. What these tests can do is shed light on certain medications and the risks of side effects.
Halee Fullerton, PMHNP-BC
Clinical reviewer
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Pharmacogenomic tests are used to predict how a person might respond to medication. In theory, they could help psychiatrists choose the best medications for their patients and prevent unwanted side effects.
However, these tests are relatively new, and there’s limited research on their reliability. So if you’re interested in taking one, talk to your provider. They can help you explore the potential risks and benefits and determine if genetic testing could be a helpful aspect of your psychiatric treatment plan.
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Liz Talago
Liz Talago, M.ed. is a mental health professional turned content writer and strategist based in the Detroit metro area. As an independent consultant for mental health organizations, Liz creates meaningful connections between brands and their audiences through strategic storytelling. Liz is known for championing diverse perspectives within the mental health industry and translating bold ideas into inspiring, affirming digital experiences.
In her free time, you can find her hiking with her two German Shepherds, puttering around her dahlia garden, or spending time with her family.
Halee Fullerton, PMHNP-BC
Halee is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. She has worked in outpatient community health with children/adolescents as well as inpatient substance use disorder treatment. She currently sees patients via outpatient telehealth. Before becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she worked in emergency rooms, medical-surgical units, long-term care facilities (including Alzheimer/dementia units) and the intensive care unit.
She chose a career in mental health because she wanted to help people and to contribute to breaking down stigma around mental health. She is especially passionate about working with people who are navigating substance use disorders, depressive disorders, and anxiety/trauma-related disorders. She has three labradoodles that she adores.
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