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Description

Carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing drug whose serum concentration is measured to optimize therapy, ensure efficacy, and prevent toxicity. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) guides dose adjustments, particularly in seizure disorders, bipolar affective disorder, and trigeminal neuralgia.

Parameter Details
Analyte Carbamazepine and active metabolite carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide (optional)
Specimen type Serum or plasma (5 mL in plain or heparinized tube)
Collection timing Trough level: collect immediately before next scheduled dose
Handling Centrifuge and separate within 2 hours; transport at 2–8 °C; freeze at –20 °C if delayed > 48 h
Assay methodology High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detection or immunoassay (e.g., EMIT, FPIA)
Turn-around time 1–2 working days
Therapeutic range 4–12 µg/mL (17–50 µmol/L); clinical correlation required

Sample Collection Information

• Volume Required: 2g


• Nature of Sample: Fecal, Urine, Sputum, Powder, Liquid


• Packaging Instructions: Fasting Blood Tests (e.g., Blood Sugar, Cholesterol, Lipid Profile)
  
  Do not eat or drink anything except water for 8–12 hours before your sample collection.
  Avoid alcohol and fatty foods 24 hours before your sample collection.
  🔹 Urine & Stool Tests
  
  Collect the sample in a sterile container.
  Avoid taking antibiotics or medications unless advised by your doctor.
  Drink plenty of water before a urine sample collection for easier collection.
  🔹 Pregnancy Test (Urine or Blood hCG Test)
  
  A morning urine sample is preferred for the most accurate results.
  For blood sample, no fasting is required.
  🔹 Liver & Kidney Function Tests
  
  Avoid alcohol and high-protein foods 12–24 hours before your sample collection.
  Stay hydrated and avoid excessive exercise before the your sample collection.
  🔹 ECG & CardiacTests
  
  Avoid caffeine or energy drinks at least 3 hours before your sample collection.
  Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy placement of electrodes.
  🔹 X-Ray & Imaging Tests
  
  Remove any metallic items (jewelry, belts, etc.) before your sample collection.
  Inform the radiologist if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
  🔹Sample Transportation
  
  Samples are to be transported in a triple package format:
  
  Wrap the primary sample container (I.e respective sample bottle EDTA, SST …)
  
  Place the primary container uprightly in a water-tight secondary container (the secondary container could be a Falcon tube or something similar)
  
  Place the secondary container into an outer package (A sample biohazard bag), while ensuring this bag is well sealed to preserve sample integrity.
  
  Note all samples are expected to come with indicating patient name, Sex, Age, Test Required.
  
  Blood samples will be transported on cold chain.
  
  Swab samples will be transported on room temperature, that is it should not be placed on cold chain.

Sample Result