Gabapentin, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: Neurontin®
Use
Gabapentin (Neurontin®) is an oral antiepileptic agent structurally related to GABA, used for therapeutic drug monitoring. It is characterized by a specific serum concentration range for effective monitoring. Clinically, it helps manage epilepsy symptoms without significant drug interactions and limited adverse events. The test helps ensure patients maintain therapeutic levels and avoid toxicity.
Special Instructions
For accurate therapeutic drug monitoring, specimens should be collected as trough levels. Transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube to avoid gel barrier tubes, which may absorb the drug. Ensure specimens are correctly maintained at room temperature during transportation.
Limitations
Gabapentin has a unique pharmacokinetic profile requiring careful specimen handling and storage. The use of gel-barrier tubes can lead to drug absorption and may affect the results. Other limitations include the need for specimens in red-top, lavender-top (EDTA), or green-top (heparin) tubes, avoiding any potential interference with gel-based barriers.
Methodology
Immunoassay (IA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 9738-6
- 9738-6
Result Turnaround Time
2-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Red-top tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube, or green-top (heparin) tube. Do not use a gel-barrier tube.
Collection Instructions
Transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Gel-barrier tube
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |