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Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA) Screen, Urine

Elavil, Aventyl, Pamelor, Tofranil, Norpramin, Sinequan, Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, Imipramine, Desipramine, Doxepin, TCASC

Test Codes

EPIC: LAB1231002

Department

Toxicology

Specimen Collection Criteria

Collect: 30.0 mL random urine in a sterile collection container.

Physician Office/Draw Specimen Preparation

Maintain specimen refrigerated (2-8^oC or 36-46^oF) prior to transport.

Preparation for Courier Transport

Transport: Urine in a sterile collection container, refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F). (Minimum: 15.0 mL urine)

Rejection Criteria

Specimens not collected and processed as indicated.

In-Lab Processing

Deliver the urine sample in its original container immediately to the appropriate testing station.

Storage

Specimen Stability for Testing:

Room Temperature (20-26°C or 68-78.8°F): 2 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F): 8 hours
Frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below): 3 months

Specimen Storage in Department Prior to Disposal:

Frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below): 2 months

Laboratory

Royal Oak Toxicology Laboratory

Performed

Sunday – Saturday, 24 hours a day.
Routine results available within 24 hours.

Reference Range

Negative

Test Methodology

Gas Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry. (GC/MS).

This test was developed, and its performance characteristics determined by Beaumont Health. It has not been cleared or approved by the FDA. The Laboratory is regulated under CLIA as qualified to perform high-complexity testing. This test is used for clinical purposes and should not be regarded as investigational or for research.

Interpretation

This assay screens urine for the presence of the following drugs: Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline, Imipramine, Desipramine, Doxepin, Clomipramine, Trimipramine and metabolites.

Serum quantitation of these drugs is available as a separate request.

Clinical Utility

This assay is designed primarily for the detection of toxic concentrations of tricyclic antidepressants.

CPT Codes

80337
LOINC: 19312-8, Amitriptyline 3333-2

Contacts

Last Updated

5/15/2025