Major depression represents one of the greatest public health burdens. A Canadian study highlights the value of pharmacogenomic tests (a type of genetic test) in identifying an antidepressant suitable for the patient, which could save a lot of time… and money.
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Although a considerable number of antidepressants are available on the market, more than half of patients with major depressive disorder do not respond well to their first-line antidepressant and report adverse effects.
Previous studies have shown that genetic factors are involved in the 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 — could determine the best antidepressant for patients with moderate to severe depression, improving their quality lives and generating major savings for the health system.
“ Pharmacogenomic tests identify variations in GenoaGenoa which influence the metabolismmetabolism antidepressants. They may improve the effectiveness and reduce adverse effects of drug therapy for major depressive disorders », note the authors in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
Saving time and money
For the study, researchers developed a model comparing the care pathway of more than 194,000 adults suffering from major depressive disorder, with or without pharmacogenomic testing. After 20 years of follow-up, the model showed that this type of test would reduce by 37% the number of patients who resist antidepressants (depression does not improve despite trying several types of treatment). By targeting better treatment, pharmacogenomic testing would also allow patients to have less symptomssymptoms of depression, which would result in an anticipated reduction of 1,869 deaths and 21,346 hospital admissions over 20 years.
