Trial by Testing

Genetic Testing for Psychiatric Medications (Pharmacogenomic Testing)

Finding the right psychiatric medication can sometimes feel like a process of trial and error. Pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing is a tool that can help reduce that uncertainty by offering insight into how your body may respond to certain mental health medications.

This type of genetic testing is optional, confidential, and used to support personalized psychiatric care.

What Is Pharmacogenomic (PGx) Testing?

Pharmacogenomic testing looks at specific genes that affect how your body metabolizes and responds to psychiatric medications. These genes influence things like:

• How quickly or slowly your body processes medications

• Your likelihood of experiencing side effects

• How your body may respond to certain medication classes

PGx testing does not diagnose mental health conditions or determine whether you “need” medication. It is one piece of information used alongside your symptoms, history, and treatment goals.

What Medications Can PGx Testing Help With?

PGx testing is most commonly used to guide decisions related to:

• Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs)

• Antipsychotic medications

• Mood stabilizers

• Certain medications for anxiety, ADHD, and sleep

Results may help guide medication selection and dosing—but they do not replace clinical judgment or lived experience.

What PGx Testing Can (and Can’t) Do

PGx Testing Can:

• Help reduce medication trial and error

• Identify medications that may cause more side effects for you

• Support safer starting doses

• Offer insight into past medication experiences

PGx Testing Cannot:

• Predict with certainty which medication will “work best”

• Replace therapy, lifestyle changes, or comprehensive care

• Explain the cause of a mental health condition

Common Questions

Is my genetic information private?

Yes. Your results are protected under strict privacy and confidentiality standards. Genetic information is stored securely and shared only with you and your authorized healthcare providers. Results are not shared with employers or health insurers without your consent.

Will this affect my insurance?

For most patients, pharmacogenomic testing used in psychiatric care does not impact health insurance coverage or eligibility. Federal protections limit how genetic information can be used by health insurers. If you have concerns about life or disability insurance, we are happy to discuss this before testing.

Do I have to do genetic testing?

No. PGx testing is always optional. Your care will never depend on whether you choose to proceed with testing. We respect autonomy and will continue to work collaboratively using other evidence-based approaches.

What if I’m already doing well on my medication?

If a medication is working well and is well tolerated, genetic testing does not automatically mean anything needs to change. Results are interpreted in context and used as guidance—not rigid rules.

Who May Benefit from PGx Testing?

PGx testing may be helpful if you:

• Have tried multiple medications without good results

• Experience side effects at low doses

• Have a family history of medication sensitivity

• Want a more personalized, data-informed approach to treatment

How Testing Works

Testing is simple and noninvasive, typically done using a cheek swab. Results are reviewed together during an appointment, where we discuss how the findings may (or may not) inform your treatment plan.

Our Approach

As part of thoughtful psychiatric care, pharmacogenomic testing is always used in combination with clinical expertise, your personal history, and your treatment goals. Our focus is on safety, collaboration, and whole-person care—not one-size-fits-all solutions.

If you’re curious whether PGx testing is right for you, we welcome the conversation.