Felbamate Test: Comprehensive Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
Understanding Felbamate Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
The Felbamate Test represents a crucial advancement in epilepsy management through precise therapeutic drug monitoring. This specialized laboratory analysis measures the concentration of felbamate in your bloodstream, providing essential data for optimizing your anti-epileptic treatment regimen. Felbamate is a potent anticonvulsant medication used primarily for severe epilepsy cases, particularly Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, when other treatments have proven ineffective.
Proper monitoring of felbamate levels is vital because this medication has a narrow therapeutic window – meaning the difference between an effective dose and a potentially toxic one is small. Our state-of-the-art testing ensures that patients receive the maximum benefit from their medication while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.
What Does the Felbamate Test Measure?
This advanced diagnostic test specifically quantifies the concentration of felbamate in serum samples using Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) technology. The test provides:
- Precise measurement of circulating felbamate levels
- Accurate quantification within the therapeutic range (30-60 mcg/mL)
- Reliable data for dosage adjustment decisions
- Monitoring of drug interactions that may affect felbamate metabolism
Advanced LC-MS/MS Methodology
Our laboratory employs cutting-edge LC-MS/MS technology, which offers superior specificity and sensitivity compared to traditional methods. This advanced technique ensures accurate results even at low concentrations, providing your neurologist with reliable data for making critical treatment decisions.
Who Should Consider Felbamate Testing?
Felbamate therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended for patients experiencing:
- Breakthrough seizures despite medication compliance
- Unexplained side effects potentially related to felbamate
- Recent dosage changes requiring verification of therapeutic levels
- Suspected drug interactions affecting felbamate metabolism
- Liver or kidney function changes that may alter drug clearance
- Pregnancy or planning pregnancy while on felbamate therapy
- Poor response to current antiepileptic treatment
Special Considerations for Epilepsy Patients
Patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy, particularly those with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, benefit significantly from regular felbamate monitoring. This ensures optimal seizure control while managing the medication’s potential side effects, including the rare but serious risk of aplastic anemia and liver toxicity.
Benefits of Felbamate Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
Regular monitoring provides numerous advantages for epilepsy management:
- Optimized Seizure Control: Ensures medication levels remain within the therapeutic range for maximum effectiveness
- Reduced Side Effects: Helps prevent toxicity-related complications
- Personalized Treatment: Allows for individualized dosing based on your specific metabolism
- Early Problem Detection: Identifies potential issues before they become serious
- Improved Quality of Life: Better seizure control with minimized medication side effects
- Informed Decision Making: Provides objective data for treatment adjustments
Understanding Your Felbamate Test Results
Interpreting felbamate levels requires professional medical expertise, but here’s general guidance:
Therapeutic Range Interpretation
- Below Therapeutic Range (<30 mcg/mL): May indicate inadequate dosing, poor absorption, or rapid metabolism. Patients might experience breakthrough seizures.
- Within Therapeutic Range (30-60 mcg/mL): Optimal range for most patients, balancing efficacy and safety.
- Above Therapeutic Range (>60 mcg/mL): Suggests potential toxicity risk, requiring dosage adjustment to prevent adverse effects.
Factors Affecting Felbamate Levels
Several factors can influence your felbamate concentrations:
- Liver function and metabolic capacity
- Concurrent medications that may interact
- Age, weight, and genetic factors
- Timing of blood sample relative to last dose
- Diet and overall health status
Test Pricing and Availability
| Test Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Felbamate Test – Discount Price | $338 |
| Felbamate Test – Regular Price | $376 |
Nationwide Accessibility
We have diagnostic centers conveniently located across the United States, including major metropolitan areas such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, and San Jose. Our extensive network ensures accessible testing services for patients nationwide.
Sample Collection and Processing
For accurate results, proper sample collection is essential:
- Sample Type: 2 mL (1 mL minimum) serum from 1 Red Top (No Additive) tube
- Important: Do not use SST gel barrier tubes
- Transport: Ship refrigerated or frozen
- Ideal Sampling Time: 1 hour before next scheduled dose
- Required Documentation: Duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory
Turnaround Time
Sample collection should be completed by the 7th of the month, with results typically available within 2-3 weeks. This timeframe allows for comprehensive analysis and quality assurance.
Take Control of Your Epilepsy Management
Proper felbamate monitoring is essential for effective epilepsy treatment. Our specialized testing provides the precise data your neurologist needs to optimize your medication regimen, improve seizure control, and enhance your quality of life.
Ready to optimize your epilepsy treatment? Book your Felbamate Test today by calling our dedicated healthcare line at +1(267) 388-9828 or schedule your appointment online. Our team is ready to assist you with convenient testing options and comprehensive support throughout the process.
Don’t leave your epilepsy management to chance. Trust our expert diagnostic services to provide the accurate monitoring necessary for successful treatment outcomes. Contact us now to take the next step toward better seizure control and improved quality of life.
