psychopharmacogenetics

Full Definition

Study of genetic factors affecting individual responses to psychiatric medications, including efficacy, metabolism, and adverse effects. This field examines how genetic variations influence drug processing enzymes, neurotransmitter receptors, and transport proteins relevant to psychiatric treatment. Editors should distinguish this from the broader term 'pharmacogenomics' and note that psychopharmacogenetics specifically focuses on psychiatric medications and their genetic determinants of response.

Usage

Usage note: More specific than 'pharmacogenomics' - focuses exclusively on psychiatric medications.

In Context

• "Psychopharmacogenetics testing revealed the patient was a poor metabolizer of certain antidepressants." — Laboratory report
• "The clinic implemented psychopharmacogenetics screening to optimize medication selection." — Clinical protocol document