What is Personalized Medicine?

Until recently, medication management for psychiatric conditions involved a lot of trial and error, with patients often trying several medications before they found the one that worked best for them. New developments in DNA analysis and pharmacogenomic testing means that doctors can use a simple test to examine how your body interacts and metabolizes different medications. This means we can find the best medication for you, with the least side effects, minimizing the time-consuming and frustrating trial and error process.

 

How Does it Work?

The test is quick, simple, and painless. A DNA sample is collected at the office using a simple cheek swab, which is then sent to the Genesight clinical lab to be analyzed. The results will be submitted directly to Dr. Schirch who will then formulate the most effective medication plan.

 

How Effective is Personalized Medicine?

Studies show when physicians’ decisions were guided by GeneSight, the likelihood of response more than doubled in comparison to unguided treatment. This also resulted in improved medication adherence. There was also a 50% improvement in remission rates for treatment guided by GeneSight compared to unguided treatment. Studies show significant reduction in medication discontinuation, polypharmacy and annual medication cost.

 

Dr. Schirch is pleased to provide the GeneSight® test, offering her patients personalized medication analysis.