Testing genetic information to guide psychiatric medication choices

This research study is investigating whether a simple genetic test can help your doctor choose psychiatric medications that work better for you. The test looks at your genes to predict how your body processes different medications, which can help avoid trial-and-error prescribing and reduce unwanted side effects. The researchers want to understand if this approach is practical and helpful in Manitoba's healthcare system.

Many people with mental health conditions have to try several different medications before finding one that works well — a process that can take months and cause frustrating side effects. Genetic testing might help doctors skip straight to medications that are more likely to work for your specific biology, but no one has yet studied whether this approach is practical and affordable in Manitoba.