Buspirone (Buspar)
Use
The Buspirone (Buspar) test is used to monitor plasma or serum levels of buspirone, a medication prescribed for anxiety disorders. By quantifying the concentration of buspirone, healthcare providers can assess patient compliance, efficacy of treatment, and determine optimal dosing levels. Therapeutic drug monitoring is essential for avoiding potential toxicity or subtherapeutic dosing, particularly in patients with altered drug metabolism or on medications that may interact with buspirone.
Special Instructions
Samples should be collected using specific containers to avoid potential contamination or interaction with tube materials. Green-top (sodium heparin) tubes are recommended for plasma, while plain red-top tubes are used for serum collection. Gel tubes should not be used for sample collection to prevent test interference.
Limitations
The test has limitations in that therapeutic and toxic ranges for buspirone have not been established, which can complicate the interpretation of results. Buspirone levels in the body can be influenced by factors such as drug interactions, liver function, and individual patient metabolism. Additionally, reference values are Mayo-derived; hence, varying results might occur based on different methodologies or patient populations.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 9356-7
- 9356-7
Result Turnaround Time
5-9 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
3 mL
Minimum Volume
0.6 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Draw blood in a green-top (sodium heparin) tube. Plasma gel tube is not acceptable. Spin down and send refrigerated.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate the plasma sample upon collection.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis, lipemia, icterus, other
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 180 days |