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Test Code LAB4220 VALPROIC ACID

Specimen Type

Preferred Sample: Lithium Heparin Plasma (Mint Green Top, Dark Green Top)

Alternative Sample: Serum (SST, Gold, Corvac, Tiger, Red Top Tube)

* See Test Limitations on this page for information about tubes containing gel.

 

Collection Instructions

Draw just prior to next dose. Note times of dose and drawing.

Specimen Volume

1 mL

Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Turnaround Time

STAT: 1 hour
Routine: 4 hours

Test Schedule

Daily

Method

Colorimetric

Reference Ranges

Valproic Acid µg/mL (Peak or Trough)

        Therapeutic 50-100

        Toxic: Greater Than 150

Synonyms

Depakene; Depakote; Divalproex

Test Components

Valproic Acid, µg/mL.

CPT Codes

80164

Test Limitations

Studies have shown that therapeutic drug levels may be altered in serum/plasma that remains in contact with separator gel. Therapeutic drug levels collected in gel tubes (SST or PST) should be run within 4 hrs of collection. If a physician requests, the test will be performed after the recommended 4 hr stability period but a disclaimer will be attached to the result.