Methadone , Confirmation
CPT Code(s):
80358
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
Methadone with quantitative results using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in measuring the concentration of methadone or its metabolites in a patient's biological sample. Methadone is a synthetic opioid medication primarily used for the treatment of opioid dependence and chronic pain management.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of Methadone include:
1. Medication Monitoring: Methadone aids in monitoring patients who are prescribed methadone as part of their opioid substitution therapy or pain management. It allows healthcare providers to assess medication compliance, optimize therapeutic outcomes, and ensure appropriate dosing. Quantitative results provide information about the concentration of methadone or its metabolites in the patient's system, helping to guide treatment decisions and adjust the dosage if needed.
2. Toxicology Screening: Methadone is a controlled substance with the potential for misuse, abuse, and overdose. Methadone is employed in toxicology screening to confirm the presence and quantify the amount of methadone or its metabolites in a patient's sample. It assists in identifying cases of methadone misuse, detecting overdose situations, and guiding medical interventions for methadone-related toxicity.
3. Forensic and Legal Investigations: Methadone plays a crucial role in forensic investigations and legal proceedings. It provides objective evidence of methadone 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 methadone.
4. Research and Epidemiology: Quantitative Methadone testing using LC/MS-MS contributes to research and epidemiological studies focused on understanding patterns of methadone use, assessing drug trends, and evaluating the impact of methadone on public health. Such data can inform policy decisions, preventive strategies, and public health interventions related to methadone use.
Interpretation of the quantitative results of Methadone should consider the patient's clinical context, drug history, and the specific methadone metabolites detected. Monitoring methadone levels helps ensure medication adherence, evaluate treatment effectiveness, and detect potential risks associated with its use.
In summary, Methadone 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 methadone or its metabolites, aiding healthcare providers, forensic experts, and researchers in various aspects related to methadone 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.