Personalized Medicine

Read Dr. Lin’s interview with Quartz: This new DNA test could help people beat depression faster

Medications do not work the same for everyone. Your DNA (genetic makeup) influences the way your body responds to various medicines.  If you are taking a medication that is not a good “match” for your genes, it could increase your chances of unwanted side effects, or you could be taking a medication that is not as effective for you.

Researchers have identified specific variations in our genes that determine the body’s response to certain medications and therapies. By identifying these DNA variations, Dr. Lin can design a treatment plan that is optimized for your genetic makeup and reduces “trial and error” to provide a more focused and personalized approach to treatment.

Selecting the right medical treatment to address your symptoms can be a challenging and frustrating process. Instead of spending months, sometimes years, to find the right medication, DNA testing can be an extremely useful tool to help select the medications that are more likely to work better for you.  Multiple clinical studies show that patients with genetic test-guided treatments are twice as likely to get on the right medication and with a 70% greater improvement in symptoms.  Patients with genetic test-guided treatment decisions may save more than $1000 in annual medication costs. And switching to genetically optimal medications may decrease annual healthcare utilization costs by at least $5000 for patients with anxiety and depression. 

• With 7 peer-reviewed clinical studies, GeneSight Psychotropic has best in class evidence for the treatment of depression
• Patients with depression saw a 50% improvement in remission rates and a 30% increase in response rates at week 8 with the GeneSight Psychotropic test vs. treatment as usual

Assurex Health GeneSight Assay®

GeneSight^® Psychotropic Test analyzes how your genes may influence the way your body metabolizes and responds to FDA-approved medications commonly prescribed to treat Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Schizophrenia and related behavioral health conditions. 

GeneSight^® MTHFR Test analyzes an important gene that may affect your body’s ability to convert folic acid into its active, bioavailable form of L-methylfolate. Folic acid must be in its bioavailable form so your body can use it in the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. This test can help determine whether you may benefit from L-methylfolate supplements.

DNA collection is done in-office through a cheek swab, then sent to a CLIA-certified laboratory for processing.  Your genetic information is protected by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and GINA (Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act), which ensure their security.  GeneSight works with insurance companies and offers patient financial assistance when needed.  

To learn more, please visit the Genesight website.