Genetic Testing

GeneSight Testing

GeneSight uses an at home cheek swab DNA kit, mailed to your home. It tests for variances in the genes that code for the enzymes that metabolize psychiatric medications, as well as the MTHFR mutation.

Classes of medications included in the test:

  • Antidepressants (all classes)

  • Anxiolytics (anti-anxiety)

  • Hypnotics (sleep meds)

  • Mood stabilizers

  • Antipsychotics

  • ADHD medications

What does the test tell us?

  • It can tell us if you are a fast or slow metabolizer of a medication, meaning you may need to take a higher or lower dose than expected in order to achieve target blood concentrations.

  • Some mutations indicate that regardless of dose, this medication is not a good option due to lower chance of efficacy.

  • It can tell us if you have a higher chance of experience side effects from a medication.

  • It can tell us if you have a higher risk for serious medication related complications, such as Steven Johnson Syndrome.

What does the test not tell us?

  • If a medication is in the green, meaning no abnormal gene mutations found, it does not necessarily indicate that this medication is going to work well for you. It only tells us that you do not have any identifiable mutations in the enzymes that metabolize this medication.

How much does it cost?

  • Testing is typically covered by insurance, and private pay is determined by a sliding scale based on your income. Prices generally range from $0 to $300. You can get a price estimate by entering your insurance plan or income via their website: https://genesight.com/cost/

IntellXDNA Testing

IntellXDNA uses an at home cheeck swab DNA kit, mailed to your home. Analyzing over 600 genes, it offers a deep dive into genetic variants that can put you at higher risk for various psychiatric conditions, as well as assessing physiological pathways that play an essential role in over all health and well being.

What do I get with the report?

Test results are paired with an extensive list of detailed recommendations, which range from supplements, lifestyle modifications, specific diet recommendations, prescription medications and more. Your provider will go through your report with you to piece out which variations are the most important to pay attention to, and how to best modify your lifestyle and treatment plan to work with your specific genes.

Areas included in the Mental Wellness Report:

  • Addiction and substance use

  • ADHD and stimulant response

  • Anxiety and stress vulnerability

  • Brain nutrients

  • Depression

  • Detoxification pathways for things like heavy metals and environmental toxins

  • Food sensitivity panel including celiac and histamine intolerance

  • Homocysteine and methylation (including MTHFR)

  • Hormone imbalances

  • Inflammation

  • Obesity and weight control

  • OCD and ruminations

Other subset reports:

  • Anxiety and Depression

  • Cognition and Memory (for patients concerned with cognitive decline)

  • Women’s Health

  • ASD & PANDAS

How much does it cost?

  • $450 to $1350 depending on order

To learn more information regarding IntellXDNA testing, visit their website: https://intellxxdna.com/

What is the MTHFR mutation?

  • MTHFR mutations are relatively common, with 34-56% of people in the US carrying one mutated allele, and 10-16% carrying two.

  • The MTHFR gene codes for an enzyme that methylates folate, which is needed for it to cross the blood brain barrier. Having a mutation in this gene leads to a deficiency in the brain, even if blood levels in the body are adequate or high. Low folate in the brain can result in depression, irritability, brain fog, low motivation, chronic fatigue and poor response to antidepressant medications.

  • Because Folate, B12 and Homocysteine pathways are closely intertwined, the MTHFR mutation can also result in poorer functioning of B12, and higher levels of Homocysteine - which is associated with higher risk for cardivascular disease, blood clots, stroke, pregnancy complications and dementia.