Escitalopram Quantitative, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: ESCITALO
Use
The Escitalopram Quantitative test is used to monitor the serum or plasma levels of Escitalopram, an antidepressant commonly prescribed for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. The test aids in determining whether patients have therapeutic levels of the drug in their system. It is particularly useful in therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) settings to assess adherence, optimize dosage, and avoid potential side effects of over or under-dosage.
Special Instructions
This test is not chiral specific and may report levels of both Citalopram and Escitalopram, particularly if racemic Citalopram (Celexa) has been administered within the past 3 days. Coordination may be required if multiple tests are ordered, as this test is not performed at ARUP, necessitating separate specimen submissions.
Limitations
Results may be falsely elevated if the patient has recently taken racemic Citalopram. The test does not distinguish between the enantiomers of Citalopram and Escitalopram. Concentrations reported will depend on the form of the drug administered. Interpretation should consider time of last dose and prescribed dose when correlating patient symptoms.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 34405-1
Result Turnaround Time
4-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection and transfer to a transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated, or can also be stored at room temperature or frozen.
Causes for Rejection
Separator tubes.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 month |
| Refrigerated | 1 month |
| Frozen | 7 months |