10/04/2025
At McKay Family Practice, we offer a simple oral swab test through GeneSight® that looks at important genetic markers, including the MTHFR mutation.
The MTHFR gene helps your body process folate (vitamin B9) into its active form, which is needed to make key brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Some people inherit a change in this gene (an MTHFR mutation), which can make it harder to produce these neurotransmitters. This may contribute to depression, anxiety, and difficulty responding to certain medications.
By analyzing your genetic profile, the GeneSight test helps us understand how your body may respond to psychiatric medications—including whether folate supplementation may be helpful. The test only takes a few minutes with a simple cheek swab and gives us valuable information to personalize your treatment plan.
