Hydrocodone, Confirmation
CPT Code(s):
80361
Turnaround Time:
24 - 72 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Urine
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Yellow Top Tube or Sterile Cup
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Collect urine in plastic container and transfer to plain yellow top tube (without preservative).
Rejection Criteria:
Specimen received outside stability requirements; Excessive blood, particulates, viscosity present
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
24 hours
Refrigerated:
7 days
Frozen:
30 days
Clinical Significance
Hydrocodone with quantitative results using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the detection and quantification of hydrocodone, a commonly prescribed opioid medication, in a patient's biological sample.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of Hydrocodone with quantitative results include:
1. Medication Monitoring: The test is used to monitor hydrocodone levels in patients receiving prescribed opioid therapy. It ensures compliance with the prescribed dosage and helps healthcare providers assess the effectiveness of the medication in managing pain.
2. Abuse and Misuse Detection: Hydrocodone has a high potential for abuse and misuse. The test helps identify patients who may be misusing or diverting their medication, providing valuable information for healthcare providers to intervene and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
3. Medication Adjustments: Quantitative results from Hydrocodone can guide healthcare providers in adjusting the dosage of hydrocodone or switching to alternative pain management strategies. It ensures optimal pain relief while minimizing the risk of adverse effects or misuse.
4. Toxicity Assessment: Hydrocodone can cause respiratory depression, sedation, and other adverse effects, particularly when taken in excessive amounts. The test aids in assessing hydrocodone levels in cases of suspected overdose or toxicity, guiding appropriate medical interventions and monitoring response to treatment.
5. Forensic and Legal Purposes: Hydrocodone with quantitative results may be used in legal or forensic settings to provide objective evidence of hydrocodone use or misuse. It can be valuable in cases involving driving under the influence (DUI), workplace drug testing, or legal disputes related to opioid use.
It is important to interpret the quantitative results of Hydrocodone in the context of the patient's clinical condition, medical history, and prescribed medication regimen. The test should be used in conjunction with other clinical information to make informed decisions regarding pain management and patient care.
In summary, Hydrocodone with quantitative results using LC/MS-MS is specifically used for medication monitoring, detecting abuse or misuse, guiding medication adjustments, assessing toxicity, and providing objective evidence in forensic or legal contexts. It assists healthcare providers in optimizing pain management while promoting patient safety and reducing the risks associated with hydrocodone use.