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Pharmacogenomics - Individualized Medicine for Mental Health and More

Evangeline Lindorf

Gene-Drug Interactions

All about Those genes: Pharmacogenomics and Mental Health

When it comes to your mental health, understanding the unique aspects of your individual genetic influence on drug expression can be vitally beneficial for effective treatment. Pharmacogenomics is a cutting-edge field that combines pharmacology (the science of drugs) and genomics (the study of genes and their functions) to personalize your healthcare. This approach has shown promising results, especially in tailoring treatment options for depression and anxiety medications. Your genetic makeup influences your potential response to medication; having access to this knowledge can lead us to more successful outcomes.

The Basis of Pharmacogenomics

Pharmacogenomics helps us understand how an individual's genetic makeup affects their response to medications. Why does a particular antidepressant work wonders for one person but cause severe side effects in another? Certain genetic variations can affect how you metabolize drugs, influencing their effectiveness and your risk of experiencing side effects. By analyzing these genetic variations, your favorite nurse practitioner (yours truly), can tailor treatment plans that are less likely to cause harm. Because, as Hippocrates taught me, first, do no harm.

The Power of Personalized Medicine

Pharmacogenomics is not a one-size-fits-all approach but a tailored strategy that considers your unique genetic blueprint. These are a few ways in which this innovative approach is changing lives.

Enhanced Treatment Efficacy

Through pharmacogenomic testing, we have the information that helps us narrow down which medications are likely to be the most effective for you, individually. This precision avoids the traditional trial-and-error approach to prescribing one medication after another until, after multiple weeks-long trials, we finally find one that works. Let’s get you happier faster!

Reduced Risk of Side Effects

Side effects are a significant concern in mental health treatment, not only because of the experience of these effects themselves but because they often lead to patients’ discontinuation of medication. Pharmacogenomics identifies individuals who are at risk of adverse reactions to individual medications, allowing me as your clinician to choose potentially safer alternatives from the outset. This is probably the most helpful aspect of pharmacogenomics, in my opinion. If you have experienced multiple adverse reactions to medications, these test results can allow you more freedom to try new or alternative treatments by giving you greater peace of mind and potentially reducing fear based on previous experiences.

Improved Patient Adherence

Fewer side effects and better results equate to better treatment outcomes!

Success Stories: Bringing Hope to Light

Let’s take the example of Emily*, who struggled with severe depression for years, trying multiple antidepressants without success. Frustrated and hopeless, she underwent pharmacogenomic testing at the suggestion of her healthcare provider. The results revealed that Emily had a genetic variation affecting the metabolism of several medications she had tried in the past. Armed with this information, her provider prescribed a different medication, one that her body could process effectively. The change was dramatic. Within weeks, Emily's symptoms began to improve, and she started to feel like herself again.

Integrating Pharmacogenomics into Mental Health Care

Despite its potential, pharmacogenomics is not yet a standard part of mental health treatment. However, as more success stories emerge and the cost of genetic testing decreases, it is becoming an increasingly attractive option for personalized care.

  • Pharmacogenomic testing usually involves a simple saliva test that you can mail. 
  • Check with your insurance provider to understand coverage options for pharmacogenomic testing. Some programs and grants might help cover costs for those who qualify.

Looking Forward: A Hopeful Horizon

Pharmacogenomics offers a beacon of hope. This approach has the potential to offer a more personalized, effective, and compassionate form of care. Your genes do matter! 

How Do I Find out If I Am a Good Candidate for Testing?

I look forward to answering your questions about pharmacogenomic testing. Schedule an appointment with me now for further information. If you simply have questions, I also offer a 30-minute telehealth visit for a reduced price.

*Name changed for patient privacy.
By eklindorf March 28, 2025
Is Mold Making Me Sick? Common Symptoms & What to Watch For Mold exposure is more than just an allergy trigger—it can be a root cause of chronic illness that is often overlooked. If you’ve been experiencing persistent symptoms without a clear diagnosis, mold might be the missing piece of the puzzle. Let’s explore the most common signs of mold illness and how to determine if your environment is making you sick. Common Symptoms of Mold Illness Mold illness, also known as Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), can affect multiple systems in the body. Here are some of the most frequently reported symptoms: 1. Respiratory Issues– Chronic sinus congestion, shortness of breath, wheezing, or a persistent cough can indicate mold exposure. 2. Brain Fog & Cognitive Issues – Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and confusion are common in mold toxicity. 3. Fatigue & Weakness – If you feel exhausted despite adequate rest, mold-related inflammation may be depleting your energy. 4. Skin Reactions – Unexplained rashes, itching, or increased sensitivity to chemicals could be linked to mold exposure. 5. Digestive Problems – Nausea, bloating, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms can be triggered by mold. 6. Muscle & Joint Pain – Widespread body aches, stiffness, and inflammation may indicate mold-induced toxicity. 7. Mood Changes – Anxiety, depression, or increased irritability can result from mold-related neuroinflammation. 8. Increased Sensitivity to Light, Sound, and Smells – Mold can affect the nervous system, making you more sensitive to stimuli. How to Determine If Mold is Making You Sick - Evaluate Your Environment – Have you noticed symptoms worsen at home, work, or school? Musty odors, water damage, or visible mold growth are red flags. - Track Your Symptoms – If symptoms improve when you leave a certain space for an extended period, mold may be a contributing factor. - Consider Testing – Mold illness isn’t always obvious on standard medical tests. Specialized urine mycotoxin tests and inflammatory marker panels can help confirm exposure. Next Steps: What You Can Do If you suspect mold is impacting your health, here’s what you can do: - Schedule a consultation for mold illness testing and a personalized treatment plan. - Take steps to assess and remediate mold in your environment. - Begin supporting your body’s detox pathways with proper nutrition, binders, and lifestyle changes. Ready to Get Answers? At Your Inspired Vitality, we specialize in identifying and treating mold-related illnesses. If you suspect mold exposure is affecting your health, contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your healing journey.
By eklindorf August 20, 2024
Natural Treatments for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Holistic Approach Hashimoto's thyroiditis, also known as autoimmune thyroiditis, is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to chronic inflammation and, over time, impaired thyroid function. Practicing as a holistic, integrative nurse practitioner in Provo, Utah, I often encounter patients seeking natural treatments for Hashimoto’s to complement conventional care. Individualized treatment is crucial. Several natural protocols have shown promise in managing this condition. Below, I outline some of the most effective holistic approaches, including iodine protocols, castor oil packs, essential nutrients and supplements, treating underlying infections, and the importance of a gluten-free diet. 1. Iodine Protocols Iodine is essential for thyroid function, as it plays a critical role in the synthesis of thyroid hormones. While iodine deficiency contributes to thyroid dysfunction, excessive iodine intake may, in very rare cases, exacerbate autoimmune activity in the thyroid. Therefore, it’s important to approach iodine supplementation cautiously. For patients with Hashimoto’s, I offer and recommend an iodine loading test to determine baseline levels before starting supplementation. If deficiency is confirmed, low-dose iodine supplementation can be considered, typically in combination with selenium. Selenium is crucial because it helps mitigate the inflammatory detoxing effects from iodine supplementation. We carefully titrate based on the patient’s response and lab results. 2. Castor Oil Packs Castor oil packs are a time-honored remedy in holistic medicine, valued for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. When applied over the thyroid gland, castor oil packs can help reduce inflammation and support lymphatic drainage, which can be very beneficial for patients with Hashimoto’s. The castor oil packs and castor oil I have found to be of the highest quality are available at the following link: https://www.shopqueenofthethrones.com/ Many patients report reduced neck pain and swelling, as well as an overall sense of well-being with regular use. 3. Essential Vitamins and Nutrients Several vitamins and minerals play a pivotal role in supporting thyroid health and modulating the immune system. Key nutrients to consider include: Vitamin D : Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto’s. Supplementation with vitamin D3 can help modulate immune function and reduce autoimmune activity. A typical dose ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 IU daily, depending on the patient’s blood levels. The best way to get Vitamin D is through your skin from the sun. In Utah, we are so far north of the equator that many people are deficient year round, and may need sun exposure + supplementation. I test all of my patients' Vitamin D levels routinely. B Vitamins : B vitamins, particularly B12, are essential for energy production and neurological function. Many patients with Hashimoto’s are found to be deficient in B12, which can contribute to fatigue and cognitive symptoms. Supplementation with a high-quality B-complex can support overall thyroid function and energy levels. I also test for the MTHFR gene to see if you need methylated B vitamins. Magnesium : Magnesium is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body, including those related to thyroid hormone production and utilization. It also supports adrenal health, which is often compromised in patients with chronic autoimmune conditions. Magnesium glycinate or citrate are well-absorbed forms that can be taken daily. Zinc and Selenium : Both of these minerals are crucial for thyroid hormone synthesis and immune regulation. Selenium, as mentioned earlier, is particularly important when supplementing with iodine, while zinc supports immune function and may help reduce thyroid antibody levels. 4. Treating Underlying Infections Chronic infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Lyme disease, and intestinal dysbiosis, have been implicated in the onset and exacerbation of autoimmune thyroiditis. Identifying and addressing these underlying infections is a critical component of a holistic treatment plan. For example, if EBV is suspected, antiviral herbs in combination with generalized immune system support may be beneficial. In cases of intestinal dysbiosis, a comprehensive gut-healing protocol, including probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes, can help restore balance to the microbiome and reduce systemic inflammation. Functional medicine testing can be useful in identifying these hidden infections, allowing for targeted treatment that addresses the root cause of the autoimmune response. 5. Gluten-Free Diet A gluten-free diet is often recommended for patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, as gluten has been shown to trigger autoimmune responses in susceptible individuals. This is particularly true for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, both of which are more prevalent in people with Hashimoto’s. Eliminating gluten from the diet can reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and lower thyroid antibody levels. Many patients report significant improvements in symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues after adopting a gluten-free diet. In addition to avoiding gluten, it’s beneficial to focus on a nutrient-dense diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and berries. Reducing the intake of processed foods, refined sugars, soy, caffeine, and dairy can also support thyroid health and overall well-being. Conclusion Managing Hashimoto’s thyroiditis requires a comprehensive and individualized approach. By integrating the use of castor oil packs, essential vitamins, minerals, and supplements, going on a gluten free diet, and treating underlying infections, patients can significantly improve their thyroid function and overall quality of life. My goal is to empower my patients with the tools and knowledge they need to take control of their health, addressing not just the symptoms but the root causes of their condition.
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