Genetic testing

My parents want me to get this done, but I know almost nothing about it. Anyone familiar with this?

I've never gotten it done, but it's supposedly good for understanding how your body metabolizes medication.

Here's a sample report from genesight: https://genesight.com/wp-content/upl...ic_3.0.0.2.pdf

Maybe that example will explain things better? I always find examples helpful in understanding things.

That was interesting, bluebicycle. I assume the meds in green areas are the recommended for that particular test's person, but it would be interesting to know why or what effect green vs. red list drugs have.

I see the confusion. Look at page 5.

Under HLA-B*1502,

"suggests higher risk of serious dermatologic interactions including toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) when taking certain mood stabilizers"

So for that patient, red means the patient has an increased likelihood for a negative interaction with mood stabilizers.

And on page 6,

CYP2C19
"This genotype is most consistent with the ultrarapid metabolizer phenotype. The patient may have increased enzyme activity as compared to individuals with the normal phenotype." On the flip side, CYP2D6 suggests that your enzymes don't metabolize certain things well.

" In particular, CYP2D6 is responsible for the metabolism and elimination of approximately 25% of clinically used drugs" - Wikipedia

CYPD2C19: "The gene encodes a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily of enzymes. These proteins are monooxygenases that catalyze many reactions involved in drug metabolism and synthesis of cholesterol, steroids and other lipids. This protein localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum and is known to metabolize many drugs. - Wikipedia

So it's just saying possible side effects. Like, you are at risk for increased cholesterol or increased body fat with the existence of the CYPD2C19 gene. But with CYP2D6, you metabolize the med well and may need a lower dose.

I have heard quite a bit about genetic testing. Some people say it was amazing for them, while others say it wasn't helpful for them at all. Personally, I would be curious to do gene testing, but I wouldn't take it as gospel truth.

I got one done. My understanding was green takes less of a dosage to take effect, and or metabolises quicker, yellow was normal and red slower metabolism or higher dosage.

bluecycle, thanks for quoting that info. I'm sorry I didn't read the document in full.

I don't know that it is truly helpful, and I guess it depends on what type of genetic testing you get done. Mine showed I'm a poor metabolizer of a lot of medications, which makes sense because I often need higher doses of meds (not just psych meds; meds for things like fibromyalgia as well). It showed I had a gene that made me 4 times more likely to get BP, but I am BP, so that was no shocker. And it's not an exact science. For most things, it is a combination of genes that make the difference and not just one gene, though there are some things they can link to just one gene or an area of one gene. And usually, it is just an estimation (a statistic likelihood) and not a 100% guarantee that something will be the case for you.

I have heard very mixed reviews. I have heard reviews from consumers and from pdocs. Most were letdown when taking the meds the report had recommended. While we may metabolize certain meds well, it does not mean the med will be effective.

Many insurers will not cover the test. It's wise to inquire about costs/coverage before consenting to the test.

I agree with Laurie's post. "I would not take it as gospel," either.


WC

I've had it too because my
Old pnurse insisted. I take it with a grain of salt

My parents are paying for it so I don't have to worry about the cost.

Just remember, it’s not the gospel truth, and for many issues (like BP), multiple gene expressions are involved, same with most medication metabolism.

I too agree. Not all it’s recommendation on meds for you will work as it might suggest

I had it done through just one of the popular online services. Found out Im genetically more likely- though it wasnt SUPER conclusive really- to suffer from several mental health conditions that I have been diagnosed with. Also that antidepressants are less effective on me- which- I more than already knew.

I think thats stuff still in its youth so its all sort of- circumstantial... but its interesting at least

I would like to get it for my son but we feel it's almost a waste for my husband or myself to get it.