Genetic testing helps to identify variations in genes, or proteins found within your body. The result of this test allows our board-certified nurse practitioners to personalize a treatment plan based on your specific genetic components.

By testing genes specific to psychiatric medications, valuable information can be obtained about how certain medications will affect your body, and how your body metabolizes those medications. This information significantly reduces the amount of “trial and error” needed to find ideal dosing and minimize side effects.  

Pharmacogenetic testing cannot independently determine which specific medication you should take or how well certain medications will work for you. But it offers a personalized guidance to your healthcare provider. 

Conditions helped by genetic testing.

Testing provides guidance to inform treatment decisions for: 

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • Bipolar disorder Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Autism
  • Schizophrenia
  • Chronic pain
  • Substance abuse

These are just a few of the mental illnesses that can see a positive impact as a result from genetic testing.

What are the most common genes tested? 

Tests often include pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic genes.

Pharmacokinetic genes

Pharmacokinetic genes provide information on how your body breaks down certain medications. If your body breaks down a medication quickly, you may not receive benefits, or you may need a higher dose. If your body breaks down a medication slowly, you may need a lower dose, or in some cases, may consider avoiding that medication.

Pharmacodynamic

Pharmacodynamic genes are helpful in predicting the effect a particular medication will have on your body.  

  • MTHFR
  • COMT
  • 2D6
  • 2C19
  • HLA A
  • HLA B

These genes can be used to influence your board-certified nurse practitioner’s choice of medication after reviewing symptoms, past treatment responses, family history of treatment, and your individual treatment goals. 

What Can I Expect? 

To learn more about genetic testing and how it can help you, contact our nurse practitioners today.

Schedule a Consultation to See How Center for Solutions Can Help You

To schedule a consultation, give us a call at 518-982-1274 or fill out the form and we’ll contact you to schedule a date and time.