Major depression represents one of the largest public health burdens. A Canadian study highlights the importance of pharmacogenomic tests (a type of genetic testing) in identifying the appropriate antidepressant for a patient, which can save a lot of time… and money.
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Although there are a number of antidepressant medications available on the market, more than half of patients with major depressive disorder do not respond well to their first-line antidepressant medications and report adverse effects.
Previous studies have shown that genetic factors are involved in variation in patient response to these treatments. New research from the University of British Columbia (Canada) shows that a pharmacogenomic test – a special type of genetic test – can determine the best antidepressant for patients with moderate to severe depression, improving their quality of life and Can make big savings for health. System.
, Pharmacogenomic testing identifies variations genoagenoa those who influence metabolismmetabolism Antidepressants. They may improve the effectiveness and reduce adverse effects of drug therapy for major depressive disorders. », note to authors Canadian Medical Association Journal,
saving time and money
For the study, researchers developed a model comparing the care pathways of more than 194,000 adults with major depressive disorder, with and without pharmacogenomic testing. After 20 years of follow-up, the model showed that this type of trial would reduce by 37% the number of patients who resist antidepressant drugs (depression does not improve despite trying several types of treatment ). By better targeting treatments, pharmacogenomic testing could benefit even fewer patients symptomssymptoms depression, which would result in an estimated reduction of 1,869 deaths and 21,346 hospitalizations over 20 years.