Psychogenic Testing

Pharmacogenetic testing helps determine how a person may respond to certain medications by analyzing specific genes linked to drug sensitivity. Alamo Premier Mental Health in San Antonio, Texas, offers this testing to support safer, more precise medication choices, especially for patients who have struggled with finding the right treatment. The team uses these insights to reduce trial-and-error prescribing and enhance long-term wellness. Call Alamo Premier Mental Health to learn whether pharmacogenetic testing may be helpful. You can also schedule an in-person or telehealth consultation online today.

What is pharmacogenetic testing?

Pharmacogenetic testing — sometimes called DNA drug sensitivity testing — is a tool that helps your provider understand how your body may respond to certain medications.

The test examines specific genes that influence how you process, absorb, and respond to medications commonly used in mental health treatment. This information can help your provider choose medicines that work better for you and cause fewer side effects.

Why might you need pharmacogenetic testing?

Everyone’s body works differently, so even if two people have the same diagnosis, they may not respond the same way to a specific medication.

If you’ve tried several drugs without success, experienced unpleasant side effects, or had inconsistent results, pharmacogenetic testing could offer valuable insight.

It can help your provider understand why certain medications haven’t worked well for you, and which ones may be a better fit.

How does pharmacogenetic testing help with treatment?

Among the most frustrating challenges in mental health care is finding the right medication and dose. Without genetic information, providers have to use a trial-and-error approach, which can take months or even years.

Pharmacogenetic testing reduces this uncertainty. Your age, weight, diagnosis, and overall health still matter, but the added genetic insight gives a clearer picture.

With the test results, your provider can make more informed decisions during medication management, potentially lowering your risk of adverse drug events (ADEs) and helping you avoid drug-to-drug interactions.

What is the pharmacogenetic testing process like?

Pharmacogenetic testing is simple and noninvasive. It’s performed right in the office, usually with a cheek swab that collects cells from inside your mouth. The sample then goes to a specialized lab for analysis.

It’s important to note that insurance coverage for pharmacogenetic testing varies. Not all insurance plans include this service, so the cost may be your responsibility. Before testing, you’ll receive information about pricing and coverage so you can make an informed decision.

Does pharmacogenetic testing replace a clinician’s judgment?

Pharmacogenetic testing is a helpful tool, but it’s only one part of your care. Your provider still considers your symptoms, medical history, past medication experiences, and personal preferences.

Where possible, your provider keeps medication to a minimum and uses other treatments, like psychotherapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and lifestyle changes, to deliver comprehensive care.

To learn more about pharmacogenetic testing, call Alamo Premier Mental Health or schedule an in-person or telehealth consultation today using the online booking feature.