Many people need medicine to feel better. But sometimes the first medicine does not help. Sometimes it even makes a person feel worse.
When this happens, the doctor must try another medicine. This is called trial and error. It can take a long time. While waiting, the person may still feel sad, worried, or sick.
Today, there is a new way to help doctors pick the right medicine faster. It is called DNA testing. At Integrated Health & Wellness Services, LLC in Wilmington, DE, we use DNA testing to help individuals receive care tailored to their unique needs.
Below, we will explain how DNA testing works and its potential to replace trial-and-error prescriptions.
What Is DNA?
Inside your body, there is something called DNA. It’s found in almost every cell. DNA operates like minuscule guidelines, directing your body on how to develop, recover, and perform.
Everyone’s DNA is slightly different, and these traits set each person apart.
Your DNA can also influence medicine. For example:
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- Some individuals require a minimal dosage of medication.
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- Others need a larger dose.
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- Some individuals experience sleepiness, dizziness, or illness following ingestion.
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- Some individuals do not experience the same drug.
That is why two individuals may have been given the same pill, yet they react so differently.
How DNA Testing Works
DNA testing for medicine is simple. It doesn’t hurt, and it doesn’t take long.
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- A provider takes a small sample. This typically involves a cheek swab or a spit sample.
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- The sample goes to a lab. The lab examines specific genes that influence how your body metabolizes medication.
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- The lab sends a report. This report tells the doctor which medicines may work best for you and which ones may not help or may cause side effects.
This test is sometimes referred to as “gene-to-drug testing.” It does not look at everything in your DNA. It only considers the aspects that aid in selecting safe and effective medicines.
How DNA Testing Can Help
DNA testing gives the doctor a better starting point. It can help you:
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- Feel better faster because the doctor can pick a medicine that fits your body.
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- Have fewer side effects because the doctor knows which medicines might cause problems.
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- Try fewer medicines because the doctor does not have to guess as much.
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- Feel calmer and safer because you understand why a medicine is chosen for you.
This is very helpful for individuals who require mental care or addiction services. Timely identification of the correct medicine can result in a significant difference in the lives they live daily.
Can DNA Testing Replace Trial and Error?
DNA testing is helpful, but it does not replace the advice of your doctor. It is the only tool your doctor uses. Your doctor still needs to:
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- Talk with you
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- Listen to your symptoms
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- Watch how the medicine affects you
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- Make changes when needed
DNA testing gives one piece of information. Your doctor uses that information along with everything else to choose the best treatment.
So, the answer is:
DNA testing does not fully replace trial and error. However, it reduces the guessing to a much smaller extent. It helps the doctor start closer to the right answer, rather than far away.
At Integrated Health & Wellness Services, LLC, we use DNA testing to inform care, not dictate it, and offer personalized counseling and follow-up.
How Integrated Health & Wellness Services, LLC Uses DNA Testing
Integrated Health & Wellness Services, LLC, is an addiction and mental health treatment center located in Wilmington, DE.
We assist individuals with substance use, mental health issues, or addiction. DNA testing enables us to personalize care and enhance its safety levels.
When you visit us:
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- We explain the DNA test in simple words.
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- We take a sample quickly and gently.
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- When the results are ready, your provider sits with you and explains them to you.
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- Together, we create a plan that fits your needs.
We do not let the test decide everything. We use the test, your story, your feelings, and your goals to make the best choices for your health.
A Simple Example
Consider two people who require the same medication. One person’s DNA may show that their body uses the medicine very slowly.
If they take the regular dose, they may feel sick. The other person’s DNA may indicate that their body metabolizes the medicine too quickly. That means the medicine may not help them at all.
The doctor can see these things in the DNA test. This helps the doctor select the correct dose or choose an alternative medicine from the outset.
Why DNA Testing Matters for Mental Health and Addiction Care
When someone is hurting, every day seems to drag on. Waiting weeks to find the right medicine can be frustrating and painful.
DNA testing gives people hope. It helps them get a medicine that works for them sooner. It also helps counseling and other treatments work better. The person can think and feel more clearly.
Final Thought
DNA testing cannot take the place of your doctor. But it can make choosing medicine much easier and safer. It helps your doctor understand your body better. It helps you feel better sooner. And it makes your treatment more personal and more caring.
At Integrated Health & Wellness Services, LLC, we’re here to help you get the care you need. If you would like to learn more about DNA testing or schedule a visit, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
FAQs
Is DNA testing painful?
No. DNA testing is a relatively straightforward and painless process. At Integrated Health & Wellness Services, we take a sample by gently scraping a cheek swab.
Do I still need to see my doctor after taking a DNA test?
Yes. DNA testing is just the start. Your healthcare specialist will evaluate your progress and alter your care accordingly.
Does DNA testing mean I will only need one medicine?
Not always. However, the test helps your doctor start closer to the right medicine so that you may need fewer adjustments.