DNA test could make psychiatric meds safer for kids

NCT ID NCT04797364

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Calgary Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study is testing whether a simple saliva test can help doctors choose the right psychiatric medications for children and teens aged 6 to 24. The test looks at the child's DNA to predict how they might respond to different drugs. Researchers hope this will lead to fewer side effects and better symptom control. The study involves 6,000 participants across four Canadian provinces.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Pharmacogenetic testing (saliva-based DNA analysis)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that genetic testing helps reduce side effects and improve treatment for young people with mental health conditions.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not prove that genetic testing directly improves outcomes, and results may not apply to all populations.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for MENTAL HEALTH IMPAIRMENT are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder bipolar disorder Depression mental disorder Psychological Well-Being Psychotic Disorders

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MENTAL HEALTH IMPAIRMENT

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Calgary

Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.