genetic testing for depression

[spikerusty]

This is a question for those users in the US as i read the other day in the UK about a new procedure being used in some hospitals in America concerning genetic testing which is used to identify potential variants in 5 genes that affect serotonin, as apparently based upon these findings this gives Doctors further information about what potential medication has a greater likelihood of working. I know that it may not be as simple as that as one has to make possible alterations to the lifestyles that we lead if we find ourselves particularly vulnerable from suffering from such a debilating illness, but has anybody had this completed for them and was it beneficial with respect to tackling their depression?? Apparently this is to be expected in the UK by the end of the year.

[4Maddie44]

We are lucky, aren't we spikerusty, because most medical problems are investigated free in the UK.  Sounds an interesting test.  I wonder if that will come free too.  

I have had quite a few tests in the last year, for various ailments, and all free on NHS.  Also, as I am over 60 all medication is free too.

[M4Y0U]

There are already tests available to test your monoamines (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine). Those are usually urine tests and they are pretty expansive (about 400-600$ but genetics is an information technology which means it is evolving exponentially which means you will see the price lowered in the years to come) .

Depression can be more complicated than modifications in your monoamines. Some have the biological depression and some don't.

I don't know anything about having a genetic test yet but it is more complicated that serotonin like I said.

Some people will get complete relief with a SSRI and some will get a complete relief too with a placebo while some don't get relief at all even with all the monoamines taken care of.

M4