What Is GeneSight?
GeneSight is a pharmacogenomic test -- a simple cheek swab that analyzes your DNA to show how your body processes different psychiatric medications. The results tell us which medications are more likely to work for you, which might need a dose adjustment, and which are more likely to cause side effects.
It does not tell us exactly which medication to prescribe. But it eliminates a lot of trial and error. And for patients who have already tried multiple medications without success, that matters.
Who Should Get Tested
GeneSight is especially helpful if you have tried two or more psychiatric medications and they did not work well -- either they were not effective or the side effects were too much. It is also useful if you are starting psychiatric medication for the first time and want to reduce the guesswork.
The test covers medications commonly used for ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and more. If you are taking or considering medications like Zoloft, Lexapro, Adderall, Vyvanse, Wellbutrin, or Lamictal, GeneSight can provide useful information.
How It Works
The test is a cheek swab done in our office. It takes about 30 seconds. The sample gets sent to a lab, and results are typically back within a week. Your provider reviews the results with you and uses them to guide medication decisions going forward.
Insurance and Cost
Most insurance plans cover GeneSight, and the company offers a financial assistance program for patients whose insurance does not cover it. Out-of-pocket costs with the assistance program are typically $330 or less. We can check your coverage before ordering the test.
Why It Matters
The standard approach to psychiatric medication is trial and error. Start a medication, wait a few weeks, see if it works, try another one if it does not. That process can take months or years. GeneSight shortens it. It is not perfect, but it is a real tool that helps us make smarter decisions faster.