Nortriptyline Serum Test

The Nortriptyline Serum Test measures the levels of nortriptyline, a drug used to treat major depression and bipolar disorders. 

Description

Nortriptyline, the N-demethylated metabolite of amitriptyline, is as effective as imipramine in the treatment of depressive episodes of major depression and bipolar disorder. It may also be useful in dysthymic disorder and atypical depression. Nortriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, is a derivative and metabolite of amitriptyline and is used to treat endogenous depression. The half-life of nortriptyline is 20 to 80 hours. Nortriptyline may be associated with cholestasis and cholestatic jaundice. Hematological consequences include agranulocytosis, purpura, and thrombocytopenia. Other side effects include a host of GI, endocrinologic, allergic, anticholinergic, cardiovascular, and neurologic disorders.