Tramadol, Confirmation
CPT Code(s):
80373
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
Tramadol with quantitative results, performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS), has specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in evaluating tramadol use and monitoring therapy in patients. Here are some key points regarding its clinical significance:
1. Assessing Tramadol Use: Tramadol is an opioid analgesic commonly prescribed for the management of moderate to severe pain. Tramadol helps determine if a patient has been using tramadol and confirms its presence in the body. Quantitative results provide information about the concentration of tramadol in the patient's system, which can help gauge the extent of drug exposure.
2. Monitoring Compliance: Tramadol is valuable in monitoring patient compliance with tramadol therapy. By measuring the concentration of tramadol in the body over time, healthcare providers can assess if patients are taking their prescribed doses as directed. Monitoring compliance is particularly important in chronic pain management to ensure patients are adhering to the treatment plan and receiving adequate pain relief.
3. Detecting Drug Abuse: Tramadol, like other opioids, has the potential for abuse and dependence. Tramadol helps identify cases of non-medical or illicit use of tramadol. Quantitative results provide information on the level of tramadol present in the body, aiding in the detection of excessive or unauthorized use.
4. Adjusting Therapy: Tramadol assists healthcare providers in adjusting tramadol therapy. Quantitative results can guide dose adjustments and optimization of treatment regimens based on individual patient responses. Monitoring tramadol levels ensures that patients receive adequate pain control while minimizing the risk of adverse effects or potential overdose.
5. Drug Interactions and Safety: Tramadol may interact with other medications, particularly those that affect the metabolism of tramadol or increase the risk of side effects. Tramadol helps evaluate drug interactions and ensure patient safety. By monitoring tramadol levels, healthcare providers can assess the impact of concurrent medications and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
In summary, Tramadol with quantitative results using LC/MS-MS is clinically significant in assessing tramadol use, monitoring compliance, detecting drug abuse, adjusting therapy, and evaluating drug interactions and safety. It provides objective information about tramadol concentrations in the body, assisting healthcare providers in making informed decisions regarding patient care and optimizing tramadol treatment.