What is pharmacogenomic testing?

Pharmacogenomics is genetic testing focused on how DNA variations may influence medication metabolism and response. It can provide guidance alongside clinical evaluation.

Will the test tell me the perfect medication?

No. Results do not guarantee a medication will work, but can help reduce guesswork and highlight options that may be higher risk or better tolerated based on metabolism markers.

How is the test done?

Typically with a cheek swab. Telepsychiatry patients may receive a mail-in kit to complete and return to the lab.

Can I do it through telepsychiatry?

Yes. A kit can be mailed and results reviewed during a follow-up visit.

What happens after results are back?

Your provider reviews the report and discusses how it may inform medication choices and dosing, alongside your symptoms and goals.

Genetic Testing • Fort Myers, FL

Pharmacogenomic Testing for Smarter Medication Decisions

Understand how your DNA may influence medication response—so your provider can personalize options with more confidence.

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Personalized

Medication selection & dosing guidance

Fewer trials

Reduce “try-and-see” prescribing

Side effects

Identify higher-risk options

Why genetic testing can matter in psychiatry

Two people can have similar symptoms yet respond very differently to the same medication. Pharmacogenomic testing is a type of genetic test that looks at DNA variations that may influence how your body processes certain medications and how you may respond.

Important: Pharmacogenomic results do not “pick the perfect medication,” but they can provide helpful guidance and reduce guesswork when combined with clinical evaluation and careful follow-up.

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What pharmacogenomic testing may show

Pharmacogenomics can identify genetic variations that may impact how you metabolize certain psychiatric medications and whether you may be at higher risk for side effects with specific options.

Metabolism

How quickly your body may process certain medications.

Response guidance

Genes that may influence expected effectiveness for some medications.

Side effect risk

Markers linked to increased sensitivity for certain options.

Dosing support

Information your provider can use when considering dosage.

Two reasons patients consider testing

Avoid side effects

All medications can cause side effects. Pharmacogenomic results can help your provider identify medication options that may be higher risk for you—so you can choose a plan more confidently.

Feel better faster

When medication management is needed, testing may help reduce the “trial-and-error” process by providing additional guidance when selecting a first option or deciding what to try next.

Want to see if testing fits your care plan?

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What to expect

Testing is simple and non-invasive. We can do it in-office or coordinate a kit for telepsychiatry patients.

Cheek swab

A quick swab inside the mouth (or mailed kit for virtual visits).

Lab analysis

Your sample is processed by a genetics lab to generate a report.

Results review

We review the report together and discuss how it may guide medication decisions.

Note: Results are used alongside clinical history, symptoms, and monitoring—not as a stand-alone prescription tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Medical disclaimer: This page is informational and does not replace individualized medical advice. If you’re experiencing an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.