Medication Genetic Testing
PGx testing as one part of thoughtful psychiatric medication planning with Lori Vasquez, PMHNP-BC.
Use genetic information as one part of the plan.
Medication decisions depend on more than genetics. At Mind Over Matter, pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing may be used as one additional source of information when choosing or reviewing certain psychiatric medications.
The test looks at selected genetic variants that can affect medication processing or response. Lori Vasquez, PMHNP-BC, interprets the report alongside your symptoms, medical history, current medicines, past treatment experiences, and preferences. Results can inform a conversation, but they do not diagnose a mental health condition or identify a guaranteed medication.
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Pharmacogenomic testing looks at selected genetic variants that may affect how your body processes or responds to certain medications. The report can add one piece of information when Lori reviews your symptoms, health history, current medicines, past responses, and treatment goals.
PGx testing may offer information about:
• How quickly or slowly your body processes some medications
• Whether certain gene–drug interactions may deserve attention
• Possible medication-response or side-effect considerations
Results do not identify a single perfect medication or dose. They support a clinical conversation and do not replace an individual psychiatric evaluation.
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PGx testing may be discussed when medication selection has been difficult, side effects have limited options, or past treatment responses need closer review. It can be relevant across several psychiatric conditions because the test focuses on medication-related genetic information, not on diagnosing a particular condition.
Lori may consider testing when you:
• Have tried more than one medication without the hoped-for benefit
• Have experienced side effects or unusual medication responses
• Take other medicines that also need to be considered
• Want additional information before discussing a medication plan
Testing is not necessary for every patient. Lori will help you decide whether the possible information is likely to be useful in your situation.
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1. Start with a psychiatric evaluation
We review your symptoms, medical history, current medications, prior treatment responses, and goals. Testing is ordered only when it may add useful information.
2. Complete the sample
The testing company provides instructions for a cheek-swab or saliva sample, depending on the test used. Ask the practice what to expect and whether any separate laboratory cost applies.
3. Wait for laboratory processing
The laboratory analyzes selected genetic variants and prepares a medication-related report. Timing can vary; the practice can provide the current estimate.
4. Review the report with Lori
Lori explains what the findings may mean alongside the rest of your clinical information. Any treatment decision is made together. Medication changes are not automatic.
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A PGx report may identify selected gene–drug interactions and provide information about how certain medications are processed. It may help Lori decide which questions, monitoring needs, or options deserve closer discussion.
The test cannot:
• Diagnose depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, or another condition
• Predict with certainty whether a medication will work
• Guarantee that side effects will or will not occur
• Account for every medication, medical condition, interaction, or life circumstance
• Replace clinical judgment, follow-up, or shared decision-making
Results should be interpreted with your full health and medication history. Do not start, stop, or change medication based only on a genetic report.
Thoughtful care around the test.
Lori combines PGx results with a full psychiatric evaluation and ongoing follow-up. The goal is to make medication conversations clearer while keeping your symptoms, experience, and preferences at the center.
Care may include:
• Review of current and past medications
• Plain-language discussion of benefits, side effects, and alternatives
• Coordination with your therapist or other clinician when appropriate and authorized
• In-person appointments in Newport Beach
• Secure telehealth for patients located in California when appropriate
Testing is optional and is not useful for every medication or every patient. Ask whether it may add meaningful information in your situation and whether testing has a separate cost.
