Aripiprazole and dehydroaripiprazole

Description
Aripiprazole and dehydroaripiprazole measured by LC-MS/MS
Clinical details

Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic with a novel structure. It is used at a dose of 10-15 mg once daily, up to a maximum of 30 mg/d. Aripiprazole undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism via CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 including dehydrogenation, hydroxylation, and N-dealkylation. Dehydroaripiprazole has pharmacological activity, and accumulates in plasma to ca. 40 % of the aripiprazole concentration at steady-state, which is achieved in about 14 days. The plasma half-life averages 75 h (aripiprazole) and 94 h (dehydroaripiprazole). Aripiprazole and dehydroaripiprazole assay is useful in assessing adherence and may help in dose optimisation, and if acute poisoning is suspected. A reference range of 150-300 µg/L of aripiprazole (60-120 µg/L dehydroaripiprazole) has been suggested (12 h post-dose sample).

Reference range

150-300

Units

µg/L

Synonyms

Abilify

Testing site
Synnovis : Reference Services : Blackfriars Hub
Laboratory
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
Sample type and volume required

4 mL of ETDA whole blood is preferred (pre-dose or ‘rough’ sample). Serum or plasma can be used if required, but please avoid gel-separator tubes.

Storage and transport

Please refrigerate (if possible) if not sending immediately. Send by first class post.

Turnaround time

5 working days

Last updated:

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