Methadone Peak Level, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: Dolophine®, Methadose®
Use
Monitor therapeutic levels of methadone.
Special Instructions
This test is intended strictly for therapeutic monitoring of methadone levels. It is important to transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube, and avoid using gel-barrier tubes, as they can significantly affect drug levels due to absorption by the gel.
Limitations
The test measures methadone concentrations in serum or plasma, which can show significant interindividual variability due to differences in P450 enzyme systems. This variability causes a wide range of methadone blood concentrations even with identical dosing. It is also crucial to interpret peak and trough levels as the ratio between these concentrations can provide more clinically useful insights.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3772-1
Result Turnaround Time
3-6 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
Refrigerate.
Causes for Rejection
Gel-barrier tube
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |