Pharmacogenetic decision support tools: a new paradigm for late-life depression?
Date
2018
Authors
Abbott, R.
Chang, D.
Eyre, H.
Bousman, C.
Merrill, D.
Lavretsky, H.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 2018; 26(2):125-133
Statement of Responsibility
Ryan Abbott, Donald D. Chang, Harris A. Eyre, Chad A. Bousman, David A. Merrill, Helen Lavretsky
Conference Name
Abstract
Clinicians still employ a "trial-and-error" approach to optimizing treatment regimens for late-life depression (LLD). With LLD affecting a significant and growing segment of the population, and with only about half of older adults responsive to antidepressant therapy, there is an urgent need for a better treatment paradigm. Pharmacogenetic decision support tools (DSTs), which are emerging technologies that aim to provide clinically actionable information based on a patient's genetic profile, offer a promising solution. Dozens of DSTs have entered the market in the past 15 years, but with varying level of empirical evidence to support their value. In this clinical review, we provide a critical analysis of the peer-reviewed literature on DSTs for major depression management. We then discuss clinical considerations for the use of these tools in treating LLD, including issues related to test interpretation, timing, and patient perspectives. In adult populations, newer generation DSTs show promise for the treatment of major depression. However, there are no primary clinical trials in LLD cohorts. Independent and comparative clinical trials are needed.