Hydroxyzine (Vistaril, Atarax), Serum
Use
The Hydroxyzine (Vistaril, Atarax) Serum test is used to measure the concentration of hydroxyzine, an antihistamine drug, in the serum. It is critical for assessing whether a patient is taking the drug at a therapeutic level, particularly for those using hydroxyzine for anxiety, allergies, or insomnia. This test is crucial for clinicians to monitor compliance, adjust dosing, and ensure that patients do not have potentially toxic or subtherapeutic levels in their bloodstream.
Special Instructions
A plasma gel tube is not acceptable for sample collection. Clinicians should ensure that the sample is refrigerated within the specified timelines to preserve the integrity of the specimen. Specific instructions must be adhered to avoiding the acceptance of hemolyzed, lipemic, or icteric samples.
Limitations
The Hydroxyzine (Vistaril, Atarax) Serum test may not differentiate between all hydroxyzine metabolites, potentially affecting the accuracy of the hydroxyzine concentration. Specimen quality is vital; hemolysis or improper sample collection and storage can influence test results. Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory data. Variability in patient metabolism and concurrent use of other medications may also impact the test outcome.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3686-3
- 3686-3
Result Turnaround Time
7-11 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(s), spin down and send 3 mL sodium heparin plasma refrigerated.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated (preferred) for 7 days; Ambient for 72 hours; Frozen for 180 days.
Causes for Rejection
NA
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 180 days |