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HelpOrder Code AMTRP Amitriptyline and Nortriptyline, Serum
Useful For
Monitoring amitriptyline and nortriptyline serum concentrations during therapy
Evaluating potential amitriptyline and nortriptyline toxicity
May aid in evaluating patient compliance
Method Name
Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Reporting Name
Amitriptyline and Nortriptyline, SSpecimen Type
Serum RedSpecimen Required
Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)
Collection Container/Tube: Red top (Serum gel/SST are not acceptable)
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Collect specimen immediately before next scheduled dose (minimum 12 hours after last dose).
2. Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial. Serum must be separated from cells within 2 hours of collection.
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serum Red | Refrigerated (preferred) | 28 days | |
| Frozen | 28 days | ||
| Ambient | 7 days |
Reject Due To
| Gross hemolysis | Reject |
| Gross lipemia | Reject |
| Gross icterus | Reject |
Reference Values
Amitriptyline and nortriptyline
Total therapeutic concentration: 80-200 ng/mL
Nortriptyline
Therapeutic concentration: 70-170 ng/mL
Note: Therapeutic ranges are for specimens collected at trough (ie, immediately before next scheduled dose). Levels may be elevated in non-trough specimens.
Method Description
The tricyclic antidepressants are extracted from serum using a solvent to precipitate proteins. The supernatant is removed, and analysis is by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.(Unpublished Mayo method)
Day(s) Performed
Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
CPT Code Information
80299
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Therapeutics Test Request (T831) with the specimen.