Desipramine Test
Also known as: Desipramine Level Test, TDM for Desipramine
Desipramine Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹9,000. Uses LC-MS/MS on Serum samples. Results in Results are typically available within 2-3 weeks after sample submission.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Desipramine Test is to measure blood levels of desipramine to monitor therapeutic efficacy, adjust dosages, ensure patient compliance, and detect potential toxicity in individuals undergoing treatment for depression or related mental health conditions.
- Test Code
- 485
- Price
- ₹9,000
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Results are typically available within 2-3 weeks after sample submission.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- LC-MS/MS
Sample Collection
Recommended specimen should be collected more than 12 hours after the last oral dose. A duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory. Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample of 4 mL (minimum 2 mL) will be drawn from a vein in your arm using a Red Top (No Additive) tube. The procedure is quick and typically involves minimal discomfort.
Report Delivery
After blood draw, pressure will be applied to the puncture site to prevent bleeding. You can resume normal activities immediately. Store the sample as instructed for stability.
Timeline: Results are typically available within 2-3 weeks after sample submission.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Desipramine Test is to measure blood levels of desipramine to monitor therapeutic efficacy, adjust dosages, ensure patient compliance, and detect potential toxicity in individuals undergoing treatment for depression or related mental health conditions.
How to Prepare
- Collect sample more than 12 hours post oral dose of desipramine
- Use 1 Red Top (No Additive) tube for serum collection
- Separate serum from cells and transfer to a screw-capped vial
- Do not use SST gel barrier tubes
- Ship samples refrigerated or frozen as per stability guidelines
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"Monitoring desipramine blood levels is essential for optimizing depression treatment, ensuring therapeutic efficacy, and minimizing risks of toxicity or adverse effects."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample collected in inappropriate container (e.g., SST gel barrier tubes)
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 2 mL)
- Sample not separated or stored correctly
- Missing or incomplete consent form (Form 35)
Understanding Your Results
Levels below 100 ng/mL may indicate subtherapeutic dosage, poor compliance, or rapid metabolism; consult your doctor for dosage adjustment.
Level: Below Therapeutic Range
Levels between 100-300 ng/mL are generally effective for treating depression without significant toxicity risks.
Level: Within Therapeutic Range
Levels above 300 ng/mL, especially >500 ng/mL, may indicate toxicity risk with symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or cardiac issues; immediate medical consultation is advised.
Level: Above Therapeutic Range
Consult your doctor if your desipramine levels are outside the therapeutic range, if you experience worsening symptoms of depression or adverse effects like rapid heartbeat, severe drowsiness, or seizures, or if you have concerns about your medication regimen.
Limitations
- ⚠Results may vary based on individual metabolism and timing of sample collection
- ⚠Does not replace clinical evaluation of symptoms
- ⚠Cannot distinguish between non-compliance and rapid metabolism
- ⚠Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor pain or bruising at the blood draw site
- ●Rare risk of infection or fainting
- ●Potential for inaccurate results if pre-test instructions are not followed
Interfering Factors
- ●Concurrent medications that may interfere with desipramine metabolism
- ●Certain foods or drinks, such as grapefruit juice, that can affect drug levels
- ●Recent changes in dosage or missed doses
- ●Liver or kidney impairments that alter drug clearance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Desipramine Test?
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