What Is GeneSight?
GeneSight is a pharmacogenomic test offered by Myriad Genetics. “Pharmacogenomic” simply means it looks at how your genes may affect the way your body processes certain medications.
The test itself is straightforward: it’s a cheek swab, usually collected in the office or at home with a kit. The sample is sent to Myriad’s laboratory, and the results are returned to your provider — not as a diagnosis, but as a report they can review alongside everything else they know about you.
What the Results Actually Tell Your Provider
GeneSight analyzes genetic variations that can influence how you may respond to, or metabolize, medications commonly used in psychiatry — including many antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and ADHD medications.
The report groups medications based on these gene-medication interactions, giving your provider additional context when weighing options and dosing. It’s important to understand what this does — and does not — mean:
- It can give your provider extra information about how your body may handle certain medications.
- It does not diagnose any condition, and it does not tell you or your provider which medication will definitely work best for you.
- It is one input among many. Your provider still makes treatment decisions with you, based on your symptoms, history, and goals.
Think of it as one more piece of information on the table — not a replacement for clinical judgment.
Who Might Consider It?
GeneSight isn’t necessary for everyone. Your provider may raise it in situations such as:
- You’ve tried more than one medication without finding a good fit.
- You’ve experienced side effects that were difficult to tolerate.
- You and your provider simply want additional information before starting or changing a medication.
Whether it’s appropriate for you is a conversation to have with your Breeze Mental Health provider.
What Does GeneSight Cost?
Cost is one of the most common questions, and GeneSight has a program designed to keep it manageable. According to GeneSight, most patients pay $330 or less, and many patients with Medicare or Medicaid coverage pay $0 out of pocket.
Through the GeneSight Promise, if your estimated cost would be higher than $330, GeneSight contacts you before running the test so you can review your options or decide not to proceed. Interest-free payment plans and financial assistance are also available for eligible patients.
You can look up your own estimated cost directly on GeneSight’s website: genesight.com/cost.
Please note: GeneSight is a third-party test provided by Myriad Genetics. Billing for the test is handled directly by GeneSight/Myriad, not by Breeze Mental Health.
Talk With Your Provider
If you’re curious whether GeneSight testing could be a helpful part of your treatment plan, the best next step is a conversation with your provider. They can help you decide whether it makes sense for your situation.
Book an appointment with Breeze Mental Health »
This article is for general educational purposes and is not medical advice. GeneSight is a registered test of Myriad Genetics; Breeze Mental Health is not affiliated with Myriad Genetics and does not perform or bill for the test. Always consult your provider about decisions related to your care.