Genetic Testing
Bowman Medical Group
Psychiatrists & Mental Health Providers located in Beverly Hills, CA
Genetic testing helps mental health professionals prescribe the right medication for your individual needs. It can minimize side effects and increase the chances of successful treatment. Bowman Medical Group uses genetic testing to help provide precision care for adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and a variety of other mental health conditions. To schedule a consultation, call the Beverly Hills, California, office today.
Genetic Testing Q & A
What is genetic testing?
We all have small variations within our chromosomes, the material that houses our genetic code. Research has identified many of these variations and discovered that some of them affect the way our body uses nutrients or breaks down medications.
Genetic testing identifies patterns within your genes that research links to particular traits, conditions, and physical functions. It gives health providers additional information to help them provide the best possible care for each patient.
How is genetic testing used in psychiatry?
Genetic testing gives the experts at Bowman Medical Group information about how your body may react to certain psychiatric medications. This helps them tailor any pharmacological treatment to suit your unique needs.
When it comes to psychiatric medications, genetic testing provides two types of information:
Pharmacokinetics
Pharmacokinetics shows how well your body metabolizes certain drugs. This helps your provider determine whether you need a standard dose or one that’s higher or lower than usual to achieve the desired effects.
Pharmacodynamics
Information about pharmacodynamics tells your provider how well a medication might work for your body. It can indicate whether the medicine is likely to control your symptoms and if you’re more prone to experiencing side effects from that medication.
At this time, genetic testing can’t determine if you have a mental health condition.
What are the benefits of genetic testing?
Patients who receive medication for a mental health disorder may spend several months determining which medicine works for them, and the right dose. During this period, they may have to endure unpleasant side effects and they may not experience the desired symptom relief.
Genetic testing can reduce the duration of the trial period because it gives your provider insight of where to start when it comes to initiating treatment with medication. It helps you avoid trying medicines that could cause more side effects. It also increases your chances of finding a solution quickly, so you don’t have to continue to suffer from symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or another mental health disorder.
To learn more about genetic testing, schedule a consultation at Bowman Medical Group. Call the office or request an appointment online today.