Myriad Genetics Study Displays Fewer Hospitalizations For Depression Patients After Genesight Testing

Myriad Genetics has announced new findings from a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology that link the GeneSight® Psychotropic Test to fewer psychiatric hospitalizations in patients with major depressive disorder. The GeneSight test uses genetic insights to help healthcare providers choose more effective medications for patients, potentially avoiding the traditional trial-and-error approach to prescribing mental health drugs.

The study, initially shared at the 2024 American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists conference, revealed promising data. Patients tested with GeneSight were less likely to be prescribed medications with harmful gene-drug interactions—almost a 40% reduction. This informed approach led to a 39% drop in psychiatric-related hospitalizations and a 29% reduction in hospitalizations overall.

Further analysis showed that patients who were switched to medications more genetically compatible experienced even better results, including a 44% reduction in psychiatric hospitalizations. Dr. Crystal Nelson, a psychiatrist involved in the study, emphasized how GeneSight testing often gives patients hope and clarity, especially after experiencing failure with previous treatments. The findings highlight how genetic testing may significantly improve outcomes for individuals struggling with depression.