CATECHOLAMINES (BLOOD)

The catecholamines test can be performed on either blood or urine. If performed on blood, the test may require one or two samples, depending on the Doctor's request. The first blood sample will be drawn after the patient has been lying down in a warm, comfortable environment for at least 30 minutes. If a second sample is needed, the patient will be asked to stand for 10 minutes before the blood is drawn.

It is important that the patient refrain from using certain medications, especially cold or allergy remedies, for two weeks before the test. Certain foods--including bananas, avocados, cheese, coffee, tea, cocoa, beer, liquorice, citrus fruit, vanilla, and Chianti--must be avoided for 48 hours prior to testing. However, people should be sure to get adequate amounts of vitamin C before the test, because this vitamin is necessary for catecholamine formation. The patient should be fasting (nothing to eat or drink) for 10 to 24 hours before the blood test and should not smoke for 24 hours beforehand. Some laboratories may call for additional restrictions. As much as possible, the patient should try to avoid excessive physical exercise and emotional stress before the test, because either may alter test results by causing increased secretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine.