AIIMS introduces free drug level testing for epilepsy patients, ends costly outside referrals

NEW DELHI: In major relief for epilepsy patients, AIIMS New Delhi began providing free Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) from January 1 for patients undergoing treatment at the institute, eliminating the need for expensive tests at private laboratories.

Until now, patients often depended on private laboratories, paying between ₹390 and ₹1,880 per test, depending on the drug. Doctors said the cost frequently discouraged routine monitoring, adversely affecting treatment outcomes.

The in-house facility allows doctors to measure blood levels of commonly prescribed anti-epileptic drugs—phenobarbitone, carbamazepine, valproic acid, and phenytoin—helping determine whether doses are effective, need adjustment, or are reaching toxic levels.

The AIIMS administration directed all departments and centres, including the National Cancer Institute, to send patient samples to the designated in-house laboratory. Both inpatients and OPD patients are eligible for the free tests.

According to the AIIMS media cell, Therapeutic Drug Monitoring is critical in epilepsy management, particularly as many patients are prescribed multiple drugs. Regular monitoring helps clinicians optimise seizure control while minimising side effects and drug toxicity.

At AIIMS New Delhi, OPD patients can use the facility at Collection Centre Room No 3 between 8.30 am and 1 pm. The service will also be extended to patients at NCI Jhajjar, expanding access beyond the main campus.

Hospital officials said the move is aimed at improving quality of care while reducing out-of-pocket expenditure. With free in-house testing now available, clinicians expect better treatment adherence and safer long-term management of epilepsy.