Some of the difficulties associated with treating depression include the often subjective nature of choosing a treatment modality, the patient’s compliance level with their medication dosing and schedules, and the sometimes unpredictable occurrence rate of various side effects of certain medications.

There are about 16 million people in the United States that suffer from depression, many of whom may be receiving medications, but might possibly receive greater benefits from a different medicine or form of treatment. With new data on medication efficacy compared with the presence of specific genetic markers becoming more widespread and readily available, performing a DNA analysis may aid physicians in choosing a medication that is specifically compatible with the patient’s genetic profile.

Michael Genovese, MD, JD
Chief Medical Advisor: Acadia Healthcare Recovery Division