Meprobamate, Confirmation
CPT Code(s):
80369
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
Meprobamate with quantitative results using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in measuring the concentration of meprobamate, a sedative-hypnotic medication, in a patient's biological sample. Meprobamate is primarily used for the treatment of anxiety and related conditions.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of Meprobamate include:
1. Medication Monitoring: Meprobamate aids in monitoring patients who are prescribed meprobamate for anxiety or related disorders. It allows healthcare providers to assess medication compliance and ensure appropriate dosing. Quantitative results provide information about the concentration of meprobamate in the patient's system, helping to optimize therapeutic outcomes and adjust the dosage if needed.
2. Toxicology Screening: Meprobamate has the potential for misuse, abuse, and overdose. Meprobamate is employed in toxicology screening to confirm the presence and quantify the amount of meprobamate in a patient's sample. It assists in identifying cases of meprobamate misuse or overdose, guiding medical interventions, and providing valuable information for risk assessment and patient management.
3. Forensic and Legal Investigations: Meprobamate plays a significant role in forensic investigations and legal proceedings. It provides objective evidence of meprobamate use or exposure, aiding law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, and legal professionals in investigating drug-related incidents, conducting drug testing, and providing evidence in legal cases involving meprobamate.
4. Research and Epidemiology: Quantitative Meprobamate testing using LC/MS-MS contributes to research and epidemiological studies focused on understanding patterns of meprobamate use, assessing drug trends, and evaluating the impact of meprobamate on public health. Such data can inform policy decisions, preventive strategies, and public health interventions related to meprobamate use.
Interpretation of the quantitative results of Meprobamate should consider the patient's clinical context, drug history, and the specific meprobamate concentrations detected. Monitoring meprobamate levels helps ensure medication adherence and evaluate potential risks associated with its use.
In summary, Meprobamate with quantitative results using LC/MS-MS is specifically used for medication monitoring, toxicology screening, forensic investigations, and research purposes. It provides valuable information about the presence and concentration of meprobamate, aiding healthcare providers, forensic experts, and researchers in various aspects related to meprobamate use and exposure. Close collaboration between laboratory professionals, healthcare providers, and other relevant stakeholders is crucial for accurate interpretation of the test results and appropriate patient management.