Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
- Serum
- EDTA Plasma
- Li Hep Plasma
Specimen Transport
First class postSample Processing in Laboratory
Place sample in toxicology rack.Sample Preparation
None requiredTurnaround Time
3 days.Sample Stability
Keep refrigerated. 4 degrees.Dosulepin (Dothiepin)
General Information
Dosulepin (dothiepin) is a tricyclic antidepressant, structurally related to amitriptylline and doxepin, that has been in clinical use since 1963. Single oral doses of 25 - 100 mg are administered 2 - 3 times per day, daily doses may range from 75 - 300 mg.
Adverse effects of dosulepin therapy include dry mouth, visual disturbances, constipation, urinary retention, drowsiness, postural hypotension, tachycardia and cholestatic jaundice.
Patient Preparation
For TDM, sample should be taken prior to dose. If toxicity is suspected, take sample at earliest opportunity
Notes
Dosulepin measured by HPLC-DAD.
Serum from gel tubes (yellow top) will NOT be analysed.
Please note this assay is not currently UKAS accredited
Reference Range
High dose therapeutic use of Dosulepin (Dothiepin) associated with concentrations of up to 0.4 mg/L. Toxicity associated with concentrations > 0.8 mg/L. (Schulz et al. Critical Care 2012, 16:R136)
Specifications
- EQA Scheme?: Yes
- EQA Status: LGC QUARTZ, LGC CLIN TOX