Clonazepam (Klonopin )

Test ID: 

703614

CPT code:

80346

Synonyms:

Clonazepam

Klonopin®

Clinical Use:

Evaluate toxicity; monitor therapeutic levels

Test Information:

The drug is used in the treatment of petit mal variant (Lennox-Gastaut), akinetic seizures and myoclonic seizures. Serum peak levels occur approximately two hours after oral administration. The apparent half-life after a single oral dose is 20 to 40 hours. Active metabolites have longer half-lives than the parent drug. Half-lives are increased in the elderly. Therapeutic effect is not well correlated with serum levels. Effect of CNS depressants may be augmented by concomitant use of this agent. This drug is used as an anticonvulsant. It is useful in reducing tardive dyskinesia.

Specimen Type:

Serum or plasma

Requested Volume: 

4 mL

Minimum Volume: 

1.1 mL

Container Type: 

Red-top tube, lavender-top (EDTA) tube, or green-top (heparin) tube. Do not use a gel-barrier tube. The use of gel-barrier tubes is not recommended due to slow absorption of the drug by the gel. Depending on the specimen volume and storage time, the decrease in drug level due to absorption may be clinically significant.

Collection:

Transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube. Collect specimen immediately prior to next dose unless specified otherwise.

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerate.

Stability Requirements:

Expected Turnaround Time:

1 to 2 Days

Rejection Criteria

Gel-barrier tube