This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.

Genetic mental health test now available for veterans, active military

The Genecept Assay, a genetic test for mental health treatment, was recently approved by the General Services Administration for use in veterans and active military personnel.

The Genecept Assay is a genetic test used to aid decision-making regarding treatment for anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, PTSD and schizophrenia.

The administration’s decision follows an extensive review of how clinicians use the test to guide treatment and medication regimens for mental health patients.

Last month, Genomind, the manufacturer of Genecept, announced it was adding eight genes to the current panel of 10.

The Genecept Assay covers more than 15 drug classes, 103 FDA-approved medications, 18 clinically validated genes and 97% of medications used to treat anxiety, ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia.

The test evaluates variations in 12 pharmacodynamic genes that indicate medication effects within the body and six pharmacokinetic genes that indicate effects via metabolism, which can inform drug dosage.

Recent study findings indicated 87% of clinicians reported patient improvement with treatment guided by the Genecept Assay. Further, clinicians reported improvement in 91% of patients who did not respond to at least two medications previously.

“We are grateful for all those who have served or are serving in the military. We know the Genecept Assay has already provided relief to tens of thousands and are glad this decision means we’ll be able to help even more patients who are connected to the military,” Michael Koffler, MBA, president and CEO of Genomind, said in a press release.