Chlordiazepoxide and Metabolites, Serum
Use
Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) is a benzodiazepine widely used in the treatment of anxiety and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It is also used as a premedication for anesthesia. The drug and its metabolites facilitate gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA)-mediated neurotransmission in the brain, helping to alleviate anxiety symptoms. Monitoring chlordiazepoxide therapy is crucial for assessing therapeutic levels and toxicity, especially in older adults and patients with hepatic disease, due to reduced drug clearance in these populations.
Special Instructions
Ship specimen in an amber vial to protect from light. Within 2 hours of collection, centrifuge and aliquot serum into an amber vial. If not ordering electronically, send one of the specified test request forms with the specimen.
Limitations
Chlordiazepoxide has a wide therapeutic index, and toxicity is dose-dependent. Routine drug monitoring may not be indicated for all patients. Interpretation of results should consider the full clinical context, as therapeutic and toxic concentrations can vary greatly.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 33060-5
- 3457-9
- 3537-8
- 3886-9
Result Turnaround Time
2-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Red top (serum gel/SST not acceptable), Amber vial
Collection Instructions
Within 2 hours of collection, centrifuge and aliquot serum into an amber vial.
Storage Instructions
Ship specimen in amber vial to protect from light.
Causes for Rejection
None specified for hemolysis, lipemia, or icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 28 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |