Pregabalin, Serum

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC64624Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID PGNCPT Code 80299

Clinical Use

Use

Pregabalin, known as Lyrica, is an anticonvulsant drug used to treat partial seizures in patients and is a more potent successor to gabapentin. It is commonly prescribed for neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia. The test is useful for monitoring serum pregabalin concentrations, assessing compliance, and adjusting dosage in patients, particularly those with kidney failure who may require lower dosages. It helps in evaluating therapeutic and potentially toxic levels, although exact therapeutic and toxic ranges are not well-defined. The test results should be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical response and other clinical tests to provide useful information for patients showing poor response, noncompliance, or adverse effects. Toxicity might occur at concentrations above 10 mcg/mL.

Special Instructions

The test involves collecting a serum specimen immediately before the next scheduled dose. Within 2 hours of collection, the serum should be centrifuged and aliquoted into a plastic vial. If not ordering electronically, a therapeutics test request form or a neurology specialty testing client test request should be completed and sent with the specimen.

Limitations

The test cannot be performed on whole blood. Therapeutic and toxic concentrations are not well defined; however, therapeutic ranges are reportedly 2 to 5 mcg/mL, and toxicity may occur above 10 mcg/mL. Proper specimen collection and handling are crucial to avoid diagnostic confusion. The test's performance characteristics were determined consistent with CLIA requirements but have not been cleared or approved by the FDA.

Test Details

New York Approved