Ethosuximide (Blood)

Referring Laboratory

SENDAWAYS - Chromatography

Testing Laboratory

Canterbury Health Laboratories Christchurch Hospital

Department

Chemical Pathology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

ETHS

Test Code (Numeric Code)

3579

Synonyms

Zarontin

Specimen Type

• Plasma
• Serum

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Plain (Red Top)

Acceptable

• Lithium Heparin - Non-gel (Green Cap)

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

4

Specimen Collection
Serum and Plasma Separator tubes (SST or PST) with GEL are NOT acceptable

Therapeutic interval: 300 - 700 umol/L
The quoted therapeutic range is for trough concentrations; specimens should be collected shortly before administering the next dose of the drug.

Units: umol/L

Diagnostic Use and Interpretation:
Ethosuximide suppresses the paroxysmal spike and wave pattern which is common in petit mal seizures. Blood dyscrasias have been reported in association with ethosuximide therapy. Periodic renal and liver function tests should be performed.

Aliquot Instructions:
2 mL serum or plasma. Store in fridge with a copy of the form. Sample type must be written on sendaway tube.
Aliquot Transport to CHL: on ice

Any queries please contact the Section Leader/Technical Specialist SCP- Chromatography

Specimen Transport Instructions for Referring Laboratories:
Aliquot Instructions:
2 mL serum or plasma refrigerated.
Aliquot Transport: On ice

1 mL Paediatric Microsample Blood

Contact Information