Genes Predict Reponse to Lithium Addition for Treatment Resistant Depression

Genotyping the serotonin transporter gene polymorphism could be a tool for predicting response to a certain treatment pathway. Patients with the s/s genotype who according to the literature seem to be at risk for a less favorable response to antidepressant monotherapy might particularly benefit from augmentation strategies.Thus, early lithium augmentation in these patients (with the s/s genotype) could be a promising strategy and might help to reduce the occurrence of treatment resistance in depressive disorders.There is evidence of interaction between a functional genetic variant in the serotonin transporter gene and life events. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter believed to play .....read more »