Test Category: Specialist BiochemistryToxicology
Investigation Name:Amitriptyline / Nortriptyline
Alias or Abbreviation:AMIT
Intro:
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCA) are antidepressants prescribed for the treatment of depression, anxiety and pain. TCA are particularly dangerous in overdoses, with a high risk of mortality. Amitriptyline and nortriptyline are widely prescribed TCAs in the UK. These are analysed to monitor dosage to identify toxicity, as well as identify instances of overdose.Pathology Laboratory:Toxicology Lab
Requestable Seperately?Yes
Units:mg/L
Minimum Sample Volume:1mL
Expected Turnaround Time:1 working day
Test Code:AMIT
Sample Type:
1mL of plasma or serum collected immediately prior to next dose, or minimum of 6 hours post dose (trough specimen).1mL of plasma or serum collected immediately prior to next dose, or minimum of 6 hours post dose (trough specimen).Complex Reference Range:The TOTAL concentration (amitriptyline + nortripyline) should be interpreted. The following ranges apply to TOTAL concentration: Non-compliance, suboptimal dose: <80 ug/L Maximum drug efficacy: 80-200 ug/L Increased risk of side affects: >300 ug/L (trough specimen taken pre dose or minimum of 6 hours post dose).
Referred to Another Laboratory?No
Storage Requirements:Samples should be stored at 4oC prior to sending and should be sent at ambient temperature through the normal postal system.
Posting Address / Requirements:City Health Campus Toxicology Laboratory Dudley Road Birmingham B18 7QH
NPEX / PDF Reporting Available:NPEX and PDF reporting is available.
EQA Scheme:The laboratory is enrolled on EQA schemes for Amitriptyline/Nortriptyline with LGC Standards PT schemes. Samples are received monthly.
Further information:Contact the laboratory on : Tel: 0121 507 4138
Lead Contact Details:Lauren Starbrook Consultant Clinical Scientist
Email Address For Chasing Results:rwh-tr.bcpsspecialistchemistryenquiries@nhs.net
UKAS Reference Number:not accredited.
Site Sample Tested:City Health Campus
Cost:Please email: bcpspathology.info@nhs.net for further details
Contact Number:0121 507 5162
