Pharmacogenetic Testing
Our genes can affect how we respond to different medications. Pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing removes much of the trial and error of prescribing behavioral and mental health medications by analyzing your DNA.
How Pharmacogenetic Testing Improves Medication Management
One of the challenges of medication management for behavioral health programs is determining which medication will work for each person.
Historically, it’s been a matter of experimentation—doctors will use their expertise to prescribe medications that they believe will work for that patient, and wait to see if it has the desired effects. If it does not, they will adjust the drug or dose.
Quality care includes proper medication that increases a person’s success in treatment. As a residential treatment facility, we know how pertinent it can be to prescribe medication correctly for mental health and behavioral disorders such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Schizophrenia spectrum disorders
- Sleep disorders
At Sequoia, we use the Fulgent PGx test to eliminate the guesswork. It analyzes a person’s DNA and looks for markers of medication and dose effectiveness, as well as risks of side effects.
How it Works
We want every aspect of your treatment, both during your time at Sequoia and after, to be as straightforward as possible. This means holistic treatment that, for most, includes medication management in addition to psychotherapy.
Clients that opt into PGx testing can find insights into the efficacy of their current and potential medications. The process to utilize this cutting-edge medical technology is simple:
YOU’LL TALK TO A PSYCHIATRIST
During the first day of treatment, all clients talk to a team member to discuss current and potential medication. At this stage, we’ll discuss PGx testing.
WE’LL SEND FULGENT A CHEEK SWAB
Fulgent requires a saliva sample to get the necessary information. Our team will swab your cheek, and send the sample to their lab.
THEY’LL SEND US YOUR REPORT
In as little as a week, they'll send us your gene panel. We’ll assess the results, and create a plan of action for your medication management.
YOU’LL START YOUR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
We’ll discuss what will be most effective for your treatment, and get you started on a medication regimen that compliments the rest of your personalized treatment program.
What We Treat
If you are struggling with your mental health, substance abuse, or both, we are here to help you regain control over your life. Our inpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs are designed to treat a wide variety of mental, behavioral, and co-occurring disorders in a comfortable setting.
Mental Health
We diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health disorders, including trauma effects, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and codependency.
Addiction
Substance use disorders we treat include addiction to alcohol, opiates, fentanyl and prescription opioids, methamphetamine and other stimulants, benzodiazepines, cannabis, and other psychoactive substances.
Other Behavioral Health Concerns
A mental health crisis can be layered and confusing. If you don’t see your disorder listed—or don’t know exactly why you are struggling—reach out to us to see how we can help. We treat each client at Sequoia on a personal level, and we’re ready to help you overcome whatever you may be facing.
Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?
Our experienced, compassionate team is here for you. Reach out to us today by calling us or scheduling a conversation at a time that works for you. All information will be kept private and confidential.
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