Levetiracetam, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: Keppra®
Use
Levetiracetam (LTA), a piracetam analogue, is an antiepileptic drug (AED) used to treat seizures. The exact mechanism by which LTA acts is not fully understood; however, it binds to synaptic plasma membranes of CNS neurons. LTA has minimal protein binding and an elimination half-life of six to eight hours in healthy adults. It is mainly excreted in the urine, and renal impairment can significantly decrease its clearance.
Special Instructions
Transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube within two hours of draw. Do not use a gel-barrier tube as the slow absorption of the drug by the gel may decrease drug levels to clinically significant extents.
Limitations
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by LabCorp. It has not been cleared or approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Neuropsychiatric adverse events such as aggression and irritability, and reactions like leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, may occur. Pharmacokinetics can be altered in cases of renal impairment.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Automated Immunoassay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 30471-7
- 30471-7
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
Red-top tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube or green-top (sodium heparin or lithium heparin) tube.
Collection Instructions
Transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube within two hours of draw.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Gel-barrier tube
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | Up to 28 days |
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