Diltiazem, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: Cardizem®, Cartia®, Dilacor®, Tiazac®
Use
Therapeutic drug management
Special Instructions
For this test, the specimen should be collected in a red-top or green-top (heparin) tube, and the serum or plasma should be separated from cells within two hours of venipuncture. It is important to avoid gel-barrier tubes as they are not recommended. The use of trough levels, which are drawn just before the next dose, is most reproducible for this test.
Limitations
This test is limited by the specificity of the high-pressure liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC/UV) methodology. Potential interferences or additional reflex tests might be necessary to confirm results if atypical drug levels are detected. The use of gel-barrier tubes is a common reason for sample rejection, and other samples that do not meet the volume requirements may also be unsuitable for testing.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6898-1
- 6898-1
Result Turnaround Time
7-14 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
3 mL
Minimum Volume
0.6 mL
Container
Red-top tube or green-top (heparin) tube. Gel-barrier tubes are not recommended.
Collection Instructions
Serum or plasma should be separated from cells within two hours of venipuncture. Submit serum or plasma in a plastic transport tube.
Patient Preparation
Trough levels are most reproducible.
Storage Instructions
Submission/transport (<3 days): Room temperature. For storage beyond three days, specimen should be refrigerated or frozen. Specimen is stable for three days at room temperature, for seven days refrigerated, and for six months frozen.
Causes for Rejection
Gel-barrier tubes
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 6 months |