You might be wondering why a doctor would prescribe an antidepressant to treat your irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Sometimes low doses of antidepressants are prescribed for IBS, even if the IBS sufferer is not depressed. Research has shown that two main types of antidepressant (SSRIs and TCAs) help IBS [...]
Ancestry genetic testing is a great introduction to genetics for many people. Direct-to-consumer ancestry tests can predict how much Neanderthal DNA you’ve inherited or that your eyes are blue rather than brown. These tests are entertaining, affordable and have changed the relationship we have with our DNA. Customers who order [...]
Depression can affect both the young and old. Younger age group studies of depression show stress and social pressures from peers and parents alike can cause depression. However, rates of depression increase with age. Work-related stress, unsuccessful marriages, or the loss of a spouse are the leading causes of [...]
The legalization of cannabis poses a challenge for employers and insurers, as they are expected to cover the cost of medical cannabis as a part of their employee health benefits. A recent Deloitte report indicates that 7% of adult Canadian population are daily cannabis users, of which 29% are [...]
Seasonal Affective Disorder Many people find themselves feeling down during the dark and dreary winter months. For some, the winter blues become serious depression. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a pattern of major depressive episodes, with symptoms typically occurring each year during the fall and winter. Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal [...]
Among the recreational users, less than 30% of Cannabis is used for specific medical reasons, such as chronic pain management, nausea treatment, or anxiety and sleep. Source: A society in transition, an industry ready to bloom from Deloitte According to Health Canada, there are just under 300,000 registered medical cannabis users [...]
Growing scientific evidence shows a link between the SLC6A4 gene and response to antidepressants. The SLC6A4 gene is involved in regulating serotonin – the brain chemical that influences everything from sleep to appetite to mood. Some genetic testing companies test SLC6A4 gene variations, promising to predict your response to antidepressants [...]
Choosing the Right PGx Test As pharmacogenetics testing becomes more widely available, it is important to understand that not all tests are the same. Different testing companies provide different recommendations with regards to applying information from PGx tests into clinical practice. It is important to understand what you are getting [...]
Medical marijuana use has been growing at a rapid rate. While cannabis has been used for pain relief for hundreds of years the evidence on its validity remains limited. Despite this, the widespread legalization and commercialization of medical marijuana has made it a popular treatment option for those suffering [...]
The risk of side effects and adverse reactions is a constant threat when physicians prescribe medication. Pharmacogenetics (PGx) tries to mitigate that risk. Traditional prescribing takes age, weight, sex, and biochemical test results when available into account. Pharmacogenetics uses genetic testing to assess variations in drug metabolizing genes to [...]
