All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has introduced an advanced blood testing service aimed at improving epilepsy treatment and reducing medicine-related side effects. The new facility, launched at the Neurosciences Centre, will help doctors monitor the blood levels of two commonly prescribed anti-epilepsy medicines — Levetiracetam and Lamotrigine.
Doctors explained that patients often respond differently to the same medication dosage. As a result, incorrect drug levels can either fail to control seizures or lead to toxicity and adverse side effects.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring to Improve Precision-based Care
As reported by TOI, the specialised testing method, known as Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM), became operational this week and is currently available free of cost. However, AIIMS officials stated that the institute may later offer the tests at highly subsidised rates in accordance with institutional policy.
At present, similar tests in private laboratories typically cost between ₹6,000 and ₹10,000 for each drug.
Furthermore, experts highlighted that the new facility would allow doctors to personalise epilepsy treatment by adjusting medication dosages based on a patient’s response, body chemistry, and risk of side effects. The tests can also help identify situations where medicines fail to reach effective therapeutic levels despite regular intake.
AIIMS Expands Access to Advanced Epilepsy Care
According to AIIMS officials, the in-house testing facility is expected to strengthen access to precision-based epilepsy care and improve long-term treatment outcomes for patients.
Prof. S.B. Gaikwad stated that advanced neurodiagnostic technologies are playing a significant role in improving the diagnosis and management of complex neurological disorders.
Meanwhile, Prof. Ashok Sharma explained that the test requires only a small blood sample. He added that patients will be able to access their reports online through the e-Hospital and ORS portals.
Facility Available for OPD and Admitted Patients
The new testing service is available for both OPD and admitted patients at AIIMS New Delhi as well as at the NCI-AIIMS Jhajjar campus.
Doctors also emphasised that epilepsy patients often require years of medication and continuous monitoring. Therefore, affordable access to advanced diagnostic testing remains crucial for ensuring safer and more effective long-term treatment.