Methsuximide (Celontin) as Desmethylmethsuximide
Use
Methsuximide, a succinimide-type anticonvulsant, is metabolized in the body to desmethylmethsuximide, its active form. This test measures the levels of desmethylmethsuximide in the blood, providing valuable information to help monitor therapy in patients receiving methsuximide for seizure management. Monitoring blood levels can help ensure optimal therapeutic ranges are maintained, improving patient outcomes and minimizing toxicity risks.
Special Instructions
It is important to ensure proper sample collection and processing to avoid rejection. Draw blood in the specified tube types and transport refrigerated to maintain the integrity of the sample. Avoid using plasma gel or serum gel tubes which can result in test rejection. Continuous availability of testing from Monday through Sunday ensures timely processing of samples.
Limitations
The test may not measure the exact concentration of methsuximide due to its conversion to desmethylmethsuximide, the active metabolite. Interference by other substances present in the sample can also affect the accuracy of the results. The test requires precise sample handling, and incorrect specimen collection or storage may lead to rejection or inaccurate measurements. It is critical that patient samples are handled according to outlined stability requirements.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3801-8
- 3801-8
Result Turnaround Time
3-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Green-top (sodium heparin) tube
Collection Instructions
Draw blood in a green-top (sodium heparin) tube(s), spin down and send 2 mL sodium heparin plasma refrigerated in a plastic vial.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated (preferred), Stable for 7 days; Ambient: 72 hours; Frozen: 180 days
Causes for Rejection
Plasma gel tube is not acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 180 days |