FYI: Ask About GeneSight - Genetic Test for Psychotropic Drug Reaction

[MaryElley]

In case you've never heard of it, there is a genetic test available that analyzes how your body reacts to different psychotropic drugs, its called GeneSight. It covers antidepressants, hypnotics, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers.

I'm sharing here because after several years, multiple doctors & hospital affiliations, and numerous medications through trial and error, I just recently heard of GeneSight. My new doc offered it, and I jumped at it. They took a simple cheek swab, and at my next appt I had a full report to go over with my doc and use to evaluate my medications and options.

Essentially, it analyzes your specific gene markers and gives a guide on how your body reacts to medications; elements like if you metabolize certain chemicals regularly, if you're prone to more side effects, etc. So, to help anyone who has had to go through all that blind trial and error, and save those from that experience, ask your doc about this test!

[Opossumish]

Interesting! Thanks for sharing. If you're in the U.S., was it covered by insurance?

[MaryElley in reply to Opossumish]

Mine was fully covered because I'm on government insurance after leaving my job. But, as Sprinkle mentioned below, even if your insurance doesn't cover it, the company says its only about $300. I know that's still a lot of money, but well worth it if it can save you side effects and time.

[Sprinkle1]

Hello, Thank you for telling us about GeneSight. My Dr. suggested it, and I said Yes. It was as you say a simple swab inside the mouth of ones cheek. My test came back and showed 2 A.D that are suitable for me. We changed me to one of them and I have had No side effects. I believe Ins will pay for it, it costs $300. As I am on Medicare it paid my bill. I have recommended it to people and the support group I just joined and will be taking the info. with me to the next group meeting as they are interested. Thank you MaryElley. Club members who are suffering on your med's. consider this test. Sincerely. Sprinkle 1

[Opossumish]

Thanks again for mentioning this, Mary Elley! I just made an appointment to get it done. I'm hoping I will be able to increase my dosage at a less glacial rate.

[MaryElley in reply to Opossumish]

I'm not sure it will help the pace of dosage increases, but it will show you if you're on the right track with what you're taking. That's part of why a test like this can save so much time and painful waiting...instead of slowly maxing out on your current med only to find its not giving you results, this can show you what drugs are right for you before trying them out. Good luck!