Alprazolam
Also known as: ALPR
Use
The Alprazolam test is used to optimize the dosing and monitor patient adherence for those taking Alprazolam, commonly known as Xanax, Xanor, Alprax, or Niravam. It assists healthcare providers in therapeutic drug monitoring, allowing for adjustment of dosage to achieve desired therapeutic effects, while mitigating adverse effects such as somnolence, lightheadedness, and muscle tremors. This test measures the concentration of Alprazolam in the patient's serum or plasma to ensure it stays within the therapeutic range, which varies depending on the use case (e.g., anxiety or panic disorders) and dosage regimen.
Special Instructions
Timing of specimen collection is critical. A predose (trough) sample should be drawn at steady state concentration to ensure accurate monitoring. The test is performed on Tuesdays and Fridays, with results reported between 1 to 7 days. Refrigerated transport is required to maintain specimen integrity.
Limitations
Interpretation of results should consider known variance in patient response to Alprazolam and possible interactions with other substances the patient might be taking. Furthermore, gel separator tubes and certain anticoagulants such as sodium citrate are unsuitable for this test, and improper handling leading to hemolysis might compromise the specimen. The stability of Alprazolam is time-sensitive, and repeated freeze/thaw cycles should be avoided to prevent degradation.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3312-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum from cells within 2 hours of collection.
Patient Preparation
Predose (trough) draw at steady state concentration.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated transport is required.
Causes for Rejection
Gel separator tubes; plasma or whole blood collected in light blue (sodium citrate); hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 3 years |