University of Manitoba Launches Genetic Testing Study for Mental Health Treatments

A team of researchers at the University of Manitoba is conducting a study to determine whether genetic testing can improve the efficacy of mental health medications. This initiative aims to eliminate the uncertainty often associated with finding the right medication for individuals suffering from mental health conditions.

The study is currently recruiting up to 200 adults who are either beginning a new medication or switching existing treatments for mental health issues. Participants will receive free pharmacogenomic testing, which assesses how their genetic makeup may affect their response to various medications.

Dr. Abdullah Maruf, the lead investigator and assistant professor in the university’s College of Pharmacy, emphasized the significance of this research. “Individuals with mental health conditions frequently try multiple medications, sometimes over months or even years, before finding an effective treatment with manageable side effects,” he noted.

Pharmacogenomic testing, while available privately in Manitoba at a cost of approximately $500, is not currently covered by the public health system in any Canadian province. The study’s researchers hope their findings will advocate for changes in policy regarding the accessibility of such testing.

Dr. Jitender Sareen, head of psychiatry at the Max Rady College of Medicine, highlighted the potential economic benefits of widespread genetic testing. He referenced a 2023 study from British Columbia, which suggested that if all patients with depression received genetic testing, the province could save $1 billion in healthcare costs over two decades. This testing could significantly narrow medication options from over 40 to just five or ten, he explained.

The research aims not just to streamline treatment options but also to hasten recovery times. Delays in appropriate treatment can lead to frustration and, in some cases, hospitalization. “Currently, physicians face limited guidance on how to treat patients effectively, which can prolong suffering from conditions such as depression and anxiety,” Dr. Sareen added.

In response to the study, Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara acknowledged the importance of new research in mental health. “Any new additions to the public health system would require a thorough assessment,” Asagwara stated. “We appreciate the efforts of Manitoba researchers and look forward to reviewing the study results once they are available.”

The research team has secured funding of $70,000 from the Health Sciences Centre Foundation and $50,000 from the psychiatry department at the University of Manitoba. The funding supports the study until 2027, with hopes to expand the number of participants and explore whether genetic testing can reduce hospital stays in the province.

Individuals interested in participating must be referred by a physician. Eligible candidates will complete a survey and provide a saliva sample for testing. Notably, more than one in four adults in Manitoba experience a mental illness, underscoring the urgency of this research initiative.

The findings from this study may pave the way for future advancements in mental health treatment, potentially transforming how healthcare providers approach medication management for those in need.