Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
- Serum
- EDTA Plasma
- Li Hep Plasma
Specimen Transport
First class postSample Processing in Laboratory
Place sample in toxicology rack.Sample Preparation
None requiredTurnaround Time
3 days.Sample Stability
Keep refrigerated. 4 degrees.Trazodone
General Information
Trazodone is a triazolopyridine derivative used since 1980 as an antidepressant agent. It is chemically related to nefazodone but it unrelated to other tricyclic or tetracyclic antidepressants. The usual daily dosage range for adults is 150 - 400 mg in one or more portions.
Adverse effects related to trazodone therapy may include nausea, drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, fatigue, incoordination, dry mouth and headache. Overdosage can cause hallucinations, delusions, slurred speech, seizures, respiratory arrest and death. Several patients have developed cardiac arrhythmias. Hepatotoxicity has been reported after short and long term usage. Serotonin syndrome may occur when the drug is used in combination with another serotonergic agent such as nefazodone or venlafaxine.
Patient Preparation
For TDM, sample should be taken prior to dose. If toxicity is suspected, take sample at earliest opportunity
Notes
Trazodone measured by HPLC-DAD
Please note this assay is not currently UKAS accredited
Reference Range
Therapeutic range: 0.70 -1.0 mg/L. Toxicity associated with concentrations > 1.2 mg/L. (Schulz et al. Critical Care 2012, 16:R136).
However, tolerance for the drug varies greatly between indiciduals. Please contact the laboratory for interpretation.
Specifications
- EQA Scheme?: Yes
- EQA Status: LGC QUARTZ, LGC CLIN TOX