What Is Pharmacogenomic Testing?

Pharmacogenomics analyzes how your genes affect medication response. By examining key variants, we can anticipate which psychiatric medications are more likely to be effective and which may cause side effects—so your plan is tailored from the start.

  • One-time, non-invasive cheek swab or saliva sample
  • Focus on metabolism/transport genes (e.g., CYP450 pathways)
  • Results reviewed by Dr. Akers and integrated into an evidence-based plan

Benefits of PGx-Guided Psychiatry

  • Personalized treatment: Reduce trial-and-error for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood meds
  • Faster results: Narrow to safer, potentially more effective options sooner
  • Fewer side effects: Inform dosing and monitoring based on your genetics
  • One-time test: Results remain useful for future prescribing decisions

PGx is one tool in a holistic model. Clinical history, preferences, and outcomes remain central to decisions.

What PGx Testing Can & Cannot Do

  • Can: Inform medication selection, dosing, and safety monitoring
  • Cannot: Diagnose conditions or guarantee response
  • Best used alongside thorough psychiatric assessment and shared decision-making

Who Benefits Most?

  • Multiple trials with limited benefit or adverse effects
  • Family history of medication reactions or non-response
  • Families seeking to reduce unnecessary changes
  • Children/young adults starting medication for the first time

PGx Testing: Price & Process

  • Price: $250 (kit, interpretation, and consult)
  • Members: Save 15% on testing services
  • How it works:
  • Book a consultation with Dr. Akers
  • Complete an easy cheek swab (in-office or at home)
  • Review results together and finalize your plan
  • Share results with your PCP or specialists as needed
Start PGx Testing

PGx Resources & Evidence

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