Desipramine
Also known as: Norpramin®
Use
Desipramine, a metabolite of imipramine, has actions and uses similar to those of the parent compound and is as effective as imipramine in the treatment of mood disorders. Untoward effects are similar to those produced by imipramine, but anticholinergic and sedative actions are less pronounced. Thus, desipramine may be especially useful in patients who are particularly sensitive to these effects (eg, the elderly).
Special Instructions
Therapeutic drug monitoring is crucial to account for co-medications, diet, smoking habit, and compliance. Collect the specimen immediately prior to the next dose for therapeutic monitoring.
Limitations
The test has not been cleared or approved by the FDA. Tricyclic antidepressants, including desipramine, interact significantly with other drugs. Inducers of hepatic enzymes such as CYP3A4 can alter desipramine levels considerably, leading to a broad range of plasma levels among patients taking the same dose. Such interactions need careful consideration in treatment planning.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3531-1
- 3531-1
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Red-top tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube, or green-top (heparin) tube. Do not use gel-barrier tubes.
Collection Instructions
Transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube. For therapeutic monitoring, collect specimen immediately prior to next dose.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Use of gel-barrier tubes.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |