Hydrocodone and Metabolite

Also known as: Free Hydrocodone and Metabolite

Clinical Use

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

Not provided.

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.

Test Details