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Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
The services provided by our laboratory have stemmed from our teaching and research efforts. For the last 4 years we have strived to develop a service that is now recognized nationally and internationally for both its quality and expertise in clinical pharmacology. The primary service provided by our lab is therapeutic drug monitoring of anticonvulsant medications such as phenobarbital, potassium bromide, and benzodiazepines. Routine monitoring of digoxin, theophylline, cyclosporine and some antibiotics is also performed. Evaluation of additional drugs are available and requests are encouraged. With each sample received and evaluated, a clinical pharmacologist reviews the patient history and drug concentrations. Recommendations based on this information are provided to aid the practitioner in further case management. Lastly, our clinical pharmacologists are available for phone consultations with practitioners and pet owners at no charge. Having veterinary clinical pharmacologists on staff is an asset that is only available at two other laboratories in the United States, both of which are located at veterinary schools.
The Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory is unique in its ability to fully integrate teaching, research, and service. For example, research into the use of potassium bromide in epileptic dogs led to the development of an assay for therapeutic drug monitoring. Results of the research are shared with practitioners who now use the drug and the monitoring we are able to offer. The bromide assay also allows students to learn the importance of quality control and assay validation. Finally, all revenue generated by the services offered by the laboratory are used to support further clinical research and teaching endeavors.
Practitioners utilizing the services of the Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory not only receive top quality service and expert advice, they may take satisfaction in knowing that they are supporting the continued development of veterinary medicine.
Our Laboratory offers therapeutic drug monitoring for Potassium Bromide, Phenobarbital, Primidone, Amikacin, Gentamicin, Benzodiazepines, Quinidine, Theophilline, T3, T4, Free T4. It is our practice to report test results upon completion, via telephone, fax, or email. Following the verbal report, a clinical pharmacologist analyzes the therapeutic drug monitoring results and makes recommendations concerning dosing regimen. The recommendations and a hard copy of the results are then forwarded to you. The clinical pharmacologists are all available for consultation via telephone, e-mail or written request.