Mental Health Prescribers’ Perceptions on the Use of Pharmacogenetic Testing in the Management of Depression in the Middle East and North Africa Region

Abstract

Objective

A wide variety of commercial pharmacogenetic (PGx) tools are available worldwide to guide treatment selection for depression based on individuals’ genetic profiles. However, the use of genetic testing to inform psychiatric care has faced challenges due to the limited training and education for mental health clinicians. The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge, level of engagement, and perspectives on the use of PGx testing when making depression management decisions among practicing psychiatrists within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Methods

This is a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. Consenting psychiatrists were interviewed through an online platform (Skype^TM or Microsoft Teams^TM). Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed with the assistance of NVivo^® software.

Results

Eighteen interviews from 12 countries have been conducted. Analysis of the current interviews produced five major themes including: (1) Overall perceptions and attitudes; (2) Knowledge and awareness; (3) Education, training, and professional experience; (4) Facilitators and barriers; and (5) Ethical dilemmas. These themes support the notion that there is limited, mostly basic, education, knowledge, and training regarding genetic testing in the management of depression, although there is significant interest and willingness in the part of prescribers to adopt this strategy in their practice.

Conclusion

The findings of the study suggest that psychiatrists practicing in the MENA region appear to be interested in implementing PGx testing when managing people with depression. However, it is also important to recognize that this cannot be achieved unless more supporting strategies are implemented within their current health system environment.

Keywords:

• pharmacogenetic testing
• depression
• qualitative study
• MENA region
• psychiatry
• mental health

Ethical Approval

The study received expedited ethical approval from Qatar University Institutional Review Board (QU-IRB) with approval number: QU-IRB 1617-EA/21. All participants provided informed consent prior to their enrollment in the research, and they were informed that that their responses would be anonymized and may be used for research purposes including publications.

Disclosure

The authors of this manuscript have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Additional information

Funding

Open Access funding provided by the Qatar National Library.