Hydrocodone and Metabolite
Also known as: Free Hydrocodone and Metabolite
Use
Opioids are used clinically because of their analgesic properties, which include pain relief as well as potential side effects such as sedation, euphoria, and respiratory depression. Monitoring and measurement of opioid analytes, such as hydrocodone and its metabolite hydromorphone, are important for clinical compliance and to manage potential abuse, tolerance, and dependence due to the high abuse potential of opioids. This test specifically measures hydrocodone and its metabolite to ensure patient compliance and monitor therapeutic drug levels for effective pain management.
Special Instructions
Separate serum or plasma within one hour of collection and transfer to a plastic transport tube. The use of gel-barrier tubes is not recommended due to slow absorption of the drug by the gel, which can lead to decreased drug levels that may be clinically significant. Specimens should be refrigerated as they are stable for 14 days at room temperature, refrigerated, or frozen.
Limitations
The test measures opioids, a class of substances with morphine-like properties, including important derivatives of morphine such as hydrocodone and hydromorphone. Despite these capabilities, the test does not cover all possible opioids or their derivatives. Further confirmation and reflex tests may be required in certain cases. Additionally, this test has not been cleared or approved by the FDA, which may impact its acceptance in regulatory or clinical decision-making settings. Variability in specimen handling and absorption by gel-barrier tubes may also influence test results.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3680-6
- 3683-0
Result Turnaround Time
4-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
0.3 mL
Minimum Volume
0.1 mL
Container
Red-top tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube, or green-top (heparin) tube. Do not use a gel-barrier tube.
Collection Instructions
Separate serum or plasma within one hour of collection and transfer to a plastic transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate; stable for 14 days. Stable at room temperature or frozen for 14 days.
Causes for Rejection
Gel-barrier tube
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |