Fentanyl, Serum
Use
The Fentanyl, Serum test is useful for monitoring fentanyl therapy. Fentanyl is an extremely fast-acting synthetic opioid used for pain management. It is important to monitor serum levels of fentanyl to ensure therapeutic efficacy and avoid toxicity, especially given its high protein binding and variable metabolism rates. This test provides insight into the pharmacokinetics of fentanyl in the patient's system to guide appropriate dosing and track potential drug accumulation.
Special Instructions
If not ordering electronically, complete and send a Therapeutics Test Request (T831) with the specimen. Specimens collected in serum gel tubes are not acceptable due to potential absorption of the drug on the gel, which can lead to falsely decreased concentrations.
Limitations
The test has certain limitations, including that serum gel tubes are not acceptable due to the drug's potential absorption on the gel. Fentanyl is metabolized primarily by oxidative N-dealkylation, and analytical results should be interpreted in light of individual patient pharmacokinetics such as protein-binding capacity, distribution, and metabolism variability. Interpreting results can be complex in tolerant individuals who may require increased doses for analgesia.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 81275-0
- 11074-2
- 3636-8
- 77202-0
Result Turnaround Time
2-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2.3 mL
Minimum Volume
1.25 mL
Container
Red top (Serum gel/SST are not acceptable)
Collection Instructions
Within 2 hours of collection, centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens collected in serum gel tubes are not acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |