Are you looking to shorten the trial-and-error usually involved in finding the best psychiatric medication? Pharmacogenetic testing at Even Better Mood Clinic personalizes your medication management. George Tun, MD, leads a team dedicated to using the best resources available to ensure the highest standard of care for your mental health. Schedule a consultation at the Irvine, California, office today by phone or online.
We all have genes passed down from our parents. You may be accustomed to playing detective with physical attributes or certain medical conditions, like the color of someone’s eyes or the likelihood of being tall or diabetic.
Your genes also impact how your body responds to specific medications. This is where pharmacogenetic testing comes in.
Also known as pharmacogenomics or PGx, this type of testing analyzes those responses.
Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, personalized care is essential in psychiatric care. It gives the Even Better Mood Clinic team unparalleled insight into which drugs will best meet your needs.
Some individuals metabolize medicines rapidly, requiring changes to their treatment plans. Not only does testing help you find better medication matches, but it also guides your dosages to produce an optimal response with minimal adverse side effects.
If your provider recommends medication as a part of your psychiatric care plan, pharmacogenetic testing may help because it:
Testing isn’t available for all medications. Remember, pharmacogenetic testing differs from genetic testing. Your provider can answer any questions you have about this pharmacogenetic testing.
For your test, the Even Better Mood Clinic team may collect a sample of cells via a blood test, cheek swab, or saliva test to investigate your genetic information. If you have a blood test, they collect only a small amount, and there should be only a slight sting.
This quick and simple procedure takes only a few minutes and carries minimal or no risks.
If you have a saliva test scheduled, avoid smoking, eating, or drinking for at least half an hour before your appointment.
Once your results return, your provider adapts your care plan immediately to calibrate your medication and dosage.
To learn more about how pharmacogenetic testing can help minimize medication side effects and maximize its effectiveness, contact the Even Better Mood Clinic office by phone or online today.