Nortriptyline
Also known as: Aventyl®, Pamelor®
Use
Nortriptyline, the N-demethylated metabolite of amitriptyline, is as effective as imipramine in the treatment of depressive episodes of major depression and bipolar disorder. It may also be useful in dysthymic disorder and atypical depression.
Special Instructions
Therapeutic drug monitoring of nortriptyline allows for consideration of factors such as co-medications, diet, smoking habits, and organ function. It is important to collect the specimen immediately prior to the next dose for therapeutic monitoring.
Limitations
This test was developed and its performance characteristics were determined by Labcorp. However, it has not been cleared or approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Active metabolites of nortriptyline may accumulate in elderly patients, and toxic side effects can develop even with plasma concentrations under 150 ng/mL.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3872-9
- 3872-9
Result Turnaround Time
3-5 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
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
Gel-barrier tube
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |