PGx and microbiome testing FAQs
Find practical answers about sample collection, processing times, privacy, report use, location availability, and professional follow-up.
Pharmacogenetic results can support a medication discussion, but they should not be used by themselves to start, stop, or change a medicine. Microbiome reports are designed for educational gut-health review and do not diagnose digestive disease.
Quick answers at a glance
| Question area | PGx testing | Microbiome testing |
|---|---|---|
| Sample collection | Cheek-swab or saliva collection, depending on the selected test and kit instructions. | Stool-sample collection at home using the materials and instructions supplied with the kit. |
| Processing time | Varies by the selected test. The estimated time should be shown on the product page or order confirmation. | The gut microbiome test is generally estimated at 15–20 working days after the laboratory receives a usable sample. |
| What the report is for | Reviewing gene–medication information alongside medical history, current medicines, diagnosis, and other clinical factors. | Educational review of the organisms and patterns reported in the submitted sample. |
| Who should review it | The customer and the prescribing clinician or pharmacist involved in medication decisions. | The customer; a qualified healthcare professional should review persistent symptoms or diagnosis-related questions. |
| Main limitation | It is not a stand-alone prescription, diagnosis, or dosing instruction. | It does not diagnose digestive disease or replace medical evaluation. |
The questions to answer before ordering
Start with the practical details: which sample is required, how the kit is returned, when laboratory processing begins, and what may delay a result.
Then review the more important limits: how the report should be used, who should interpret it, what the privacy documents say, and whether the selected service is available for your location.
Sample and return steps
Follow the instructions included with the exact kit you receive. Different tests may use different collection materials.
Report purpose
Know whether the report is intended for a medication discussion or for educational gut-health review.
Availability and support
Confirm service availability, shipping details, and any review or consent step before submitting payment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I order a test online?
Online ordering may be available when the selected test can be provided in your location. Review the product page, consent information, shipping terms, and any eligibility requirements before purchasing.
Can I use a PGx report without speaking to a clinician?
You may read and keep your report, but do not start, stop, switch, or change the dose of a medicine based only on a PGx result. Share the report with the prescribing clinician or pharmacist who can consider your diagnosis, medication list, health history, and other relevant factors.
What sample will I need to collect?
PGx testing commonly uses a cheek swab or saliva sample, depending on the test. Gut microbiome testing uses a stool sample. Always follow the instructions supplied with your specific kit.
How long will results take?
Turnaround time begins after the laboratory receives a usable sample, not on the order date. PGx timing varies by test. The gut microbiome test is generally estimated at 15–20 working days after laboratory receipt. Shipping, holidays, sample quality, or recollection can extend the overall timeline.
How is my information handled?
Review the Privacy Policy and Informed Consent pages before ordering. They should explain what information is collected, how samples and reports are handled, who may receive the information, and which choices or rights are available to you.
Do location pages mean there is a physical office in my city?
No. A location page explains online service availability and the ordering workflow for people in that area. It does not necessarily mean there is a walk-in clinic, laboratory, or storefront in that city.
Can I share my report with my doctor or pharmacist?
Yes. A PGx report is most useful when reviewed by a clinician or pharmacist who knows your current medicines and health history. Use a secure method when sending health information.
What happens if my sample cannot be processed?
You may be asked to collect another sample. The next steps, replacement-kit terms, and any additional shipping charge depend on the test, the reason the sample was unsuccessful, and the applicable order terms.
How do I know whether a result is actionable or informational?
A result becomes clinically actionable only after a qualified professional interprets it in the context of your medical situation. PGx findings may support a medication discussion. Microbiome findings are generally educational and should not be treated as a diagnosis or treatment plan.
Which test should I choose?
Choose based on the question you are trying to answer. Medication-response questions point toward PGx testing. Educational questions about the organisms and patterns reported in a stool sample point toward microbiome testing. Contact the support team when the difference is unclear.
Open the page that matches your next question
Read more about PGx samples, report use, clinician review, and medication-related limitations.
Review stool-sample collection, processing time, educational report use, and follow-up questions.
Compare current test pricing, what is included, and which extra charges may apply.
Review the published information about personal data, genetic information, samples, and reports.
Three details worth checking
The exact test and sample
Confirm the test name, sample type, collection instructions, and whether a replacement sample may be required.
Timing and shipping
Separate delivery time from laboratory processing time and check when the estimated turnaround actually begins.
Report limits and follow-up
Understand what the report can support, what it cannot establish, and who should help interpret the findings.
Still have a question?
Tell us which test you are considering and the state where the kit will be delivered. We can point you to the most relevant ordering, sample, pricing, or report information.
Do not include unnecessary medical, genetic, or identifying information in your first message.
