The how and why of therapeutic drug monitoring

Abstract

Therapeutic drug monitoring is a truly multi-disciplinary activity drawing on the expertise of analytical chemists, biochemists, pharmacists and clinicians. Although analytical chemists involved in therapeutic drug monitoring may be familiar with their assay techniques, a basic understanding of therapeutic drug monitoring is essential in interpreting assay results and collaborating more effectively with biomedical colleagues. This article examines the reasons behind monitoring therapeutic drugs and compares the techniques available for their analyses.