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Why Anti-Anxiety Meds Fail for Some And What Your DNA Reveals

Why Anti-Anxiety Meds Fail for Some And What Your DNA Reveals

Why It’s Not Just You!

For many people living with anxiety, the path to relief is full of setbacks. Some try one medication, then another, only to experience limited results or uncomfortable side effects. It’s easy to start wondering, “Is it me? Am I just resistant to treatment?”

Here at BloomDNA®, we can say with confidence that it’s not just you. It’s likely your genes.

The way your body processes anxiety medication is shaped by your DNA. And that means what works for one person may not work for another, even if they have the same diagnosis.

One Condition, Many Medications, Zero Guarantees

Anti-anxiety medications like SSRIs, SNRIs, and benzodiazepines are often the first line of defense. But prescribing these drugs involves some degree of trial and error. That’s not due to poor care, it’s due to biology.

What most people don’t realize is that two individuals could be prescribed the exact same medication, at the same dose, and have completely different outcomes. One may find stability. The other may feel worse.

We believe that no one should have to struggle through months of trial and error just to find what works. That’s where pharmacogenetics comes in.

How Genetics Affects Your Anxiety Medication

Pharmacogenetics, or PGx for short, is the science of how your genes impact your response to medications. When it comes to anxiety treatment, certain genes play a major role in how your body breaks down drugs.

At BloomDNA®, we analyze enzymes such as:

  • CYP2C19 – impacts the metabolism of common SSRIs like citalopram and escitalopram
  • CYP2D6 – affects how you respond to other antidepressants and anxiety medications
  • SLC6A4 – tied to serotonin transporter sensitivity

Variations in these genes can mean you metabolize medication too fast (so it exits your body before it helps) or too slow (which can lead to stronger side effects). Knowing your status in these pathways helps avoid guesswork.

What the Testing Process Looks Like

Our test is non-invasive and simple. You collect a sample using the kit we provide, return it to our lab, and we analyze your DNA for key markers that influence medication response.

Your results include:

  • Personalized insights on over 300 medications
  • A categorized list of medications to use with caution, as prescribed
  • A report you can share with your provider to guide next steps

All of this is designed to support a more informed, personalized treatment approach.

Why BloomDNA® Is a Smarter Starting Point

Unlike typical over-the-counter genetic tests, BloomDNA® is a clinical-grade pharmacogenetic test. It was designed with providers in mind and developed in partnership with a certified laboratory here in the United States.

We’re focused on actionable results. That means:

  • More clarity for you
  • More confidence for your provider
  • More control over your treatment plan

Because when it comes to mental health, time matters. And knowing what’s likely to work before you start can make all the difference.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’re tired of trial and error or about to begin your anxiety treatment journey, BloomDNA® can help you start with more insight. Personalized care starts with knowing how your body is built to respond.

Order your BloomDNA® test today to uncover your medication match.

References

Genetic Influence on SSRI Effectiveness (CYP2C19)
Impact of CYP2C19 Metabolizer Status on SSRIs
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8975743

Overview of Genetic Impact on Antidepressant/Anxiolytic Response
Pharmacogenetics of Antidepressant Response: Review of Candidate Genes
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3044192

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