Pilot Study of Pharmacogenetic Testing to Support Psychotropic Medication Prescribing in Adults with Mental Illness in Manitoba

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the feasibility and usefulness of pharmacogenetic PGx testing for adults aged 18 and older seeking care for mental illness in Manitoba. PGx testing uses genetic information to guide medication selection and dosing, potentially reducing the trial-and-error process when prescribing psychotropic medicines. This study aims to explore how well PGx testing can be integrated into mental health care and its impact on clinical decisions and patient outcomes in this population. Participants will undergo pharmacogenetic testing by providing a small saliva sample. The extracted DNA is analyzed for specific gene variants related to drug metabolism and response. Results are compiled into a detailed clinical report with evidence-based recommendations to help physicians tailor psychotropic medication choices. This testing panel includes multiple genes such as CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and others relevant to psychiatric drug response, and results are shared with treating clinicians to inform treatment decisions. During the study, participants and clinicians will complete satisfaction surveys, and researchers will track test turnaround times and how results affect prescribing patterns. Various clinical assessments, including symptom severity and global functioning scales, will be performed at baseline and up to three months after to evaluate changes. Additional measures include adverse drug reaction ratings and healthcare resource use over one year. The study seeks to inform healthcare policy and support decisions on implementing PGx-guided psychotropic prescribing in Manitoba.

Pharmacogenomics-Supported Psychotropic Prescribing Trial