Test Directory

• Desipramine
• Imipramine & Desipramine Total
• Imipramine

Imipramine is the most thoroughly studied tricyclic antidepressant for the treatment of agoraphobia and panic disorder. Several small, placebo-controlled studies and open trials have confirmed the panic-blocking effects of this drug; however, many of these studies also employed behavioral therapy, thus obscuring the relative contribution of imipramine. A recent placebo-controlled, dose-response study confirmed that imipramine alone has significant antipanic and antiphobic effects. The best response was obtained at a dosage of 150−200 mg/day (mean, 185 mg/day). Most other studies also emphasize titrating the dosage to establish plasma concentrations within the range used for the treatment of depression; however, some patients may respond to doses <100 mg/day. Imipramine also has been given with high-potency benzodiazepines for panic disorder.

Specimen Type: Serum

Alternate Specimen Type: Plasma

Collection Container: Red Top, Plain

Alternate Collection Container: Lavender Top (EDTA) or Green Top (Sodium or Lithium Heparin)

Desired Specimen Volume: 1 mL

1. Collect a red top, plain tube via venipuncture.

1. Separate serum from cells.
2. Transfer 1 mL of serum to a clear aliquot tube (screw cap).

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated. 

• Gel-barrier tube

 See patient report.

Do not use a gel-barrier tube. The use of gel-barrier tubes is not recommended due to slow absorption of the drug by the gel. Depending on the specimen volume and storage time, the decrease in drug level due to absorption may be clinically significant.

• Tofranil-PM®
• Tofranil®