Alprazolam (Xanax)
Use
This test is used for the quantitation of alprazolam and its metabolites in serum or plasma to monitor therapeutic drug levels, ensure compliance, and potentially guide dosage adjustments. It is primarily used in the management of patients on alprazolam, a medication commonly prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. Monitoring is crucial to maintain therapeutic efficacy and avoid toxicity.
Special Instructions
Blood specimens should be drawn in a red-top or green-top sodium heparin tube. Serum gel tubes and plasma gel tubes are not acceptable for this test. Specimens should be refrigerated and sent in plastic vials.
Limitations
The assay is specific for alprazolam and its metabolites; however, it may not account for all potential interferences from other benzodiazepines or substances. Specimen handling and stability conditions must be rigorously followed to avoid degradation, which could lead to inaccurate results. The test should be interpreted in the context of clinical findings and other diagnostic procedures.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 59611-4
- 59611-4
Result Turnaround Time
5-9 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1.0 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Draw blood in a plain, red-top tube(s), serum gel tube is not acceptable. Spin down and send 2 mL of serum refrigerated in a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Serum gel tubes and Plasma gel tubes not acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 180 days |