Published Apr 4, 2017
Purple_Clover
133 Posts
Nimrodel, BSN, RN
80 Posts
There is also a genetic test that can be done with a cheek swab that helps predict responses to a wide array of mental health medications. It's called Genomind. Fascinating stuff.
poppycat, ADN, BSN
856 Posts
I actually had this done last summer &, because of this test, I am finally on a medication that has my bipolar stabilized!
VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN
22 Articles; 9,996 Posts
That's amazing! How do you get this test done, and how much does it cost? Insurance probably doesn't cover it, I imagine. I'm happy with my current bipolar med "cocktail" but it could use some fine-tuning, and maybe I could be on fewer meds if I knew which one(s) would work best for me.
I did the cheek swab one. I was pretty young when we did it (like 14) so I don't remember whether insurance covered it, but it was definitely under $100. It doesn't guarantee effectiveness, but it helps rule out say having super bad side effects to meds.
I actually got it done free as part of a research program so I don't know what the cost is.
My psychiatrist was very happy when I brought in the results. He said he sometimes orders it for patients who are having a hard time getting the right meds.