Understanding CYP 450 Testing

The cytochrome P450 enzyme includes the CYP2D6 enzyme, which processes many antidepressants and antipsychotic medications. By checking your DNA for certain gene variations, CYP450 tests can offer clues about how your body may respond to a particular antidepressant. CYP450 tests can also identify variations in other enzymes, such as the CYP2C19 enzyme.

CYP450 and other genetic tests (genotyping tests) are becoming more common as providers try to understand why antidepressants help some people and not others. While the use of these tests might be increasing, there are limitations.

The cytochrome P450 enzyme system (CYP 450) is used to process many medications, including antidepressants and other mood-stabilizing medications. By using genomics to identify certain gene variations, CYP450 tests can offer clues about how your body may respond to a particular medication.