Tiagabine (Gabitril), Serum
Use
This test is used to measure serum concentration levels of Tiagabine, marketed under the name Gabitril, to assist in clinical management of patients taking this medication. Tiagabine is an anticonvulsant medication used primarily in the treatment of epilepsy. Monitoring serum levels helps ensure therapeutic effectiveness while minimizing potential toxicity, as there can be considerable variability in how patients process the drug due to factors such as liver metabolism and concomitant medications.
Special Instructions
Blood should be drawn in a plain red-top tube; serum gel tubes are not acceptable as they may interfere with test results. After collection, it is essential that the blood is processed promptly by centrifuging to separate the serum from cells. The serum should then be transferred to a plastic vial for refrigeration.
Limitations
Tiagabine serum concentration alone may not correlate with clinical outcomes as therapeutic and toxic ranges have not been established. The observed concentrations can vary widely depending on dosage and individual patient factors, such as metabolism and concurrent medication use. Peak concentrations typically occur at 45 minutes post-dose and steady state is usually reached within two days. The reference ranges provided do not account for individual variability and should be interpreted in the context of clinical presentation and other diagnostic tests.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 21565-7
- 21565-7
Result Turnaround Time
2-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
3 mL
Minimum Volume
0.6 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Draw blood in a plain red-top tube(s), serum gel tube is not acceptable. Spin down and send 3 mL of serum refrigerated in a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
NA
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 180 days |