Therapeutic drug management
Trough levels are most reproducible
Dk green heparin (Li or Na), no gel
Immediately following collection, mix sample thoroughly by gently inverting 8 - 10 times to prevent clotting
Refrigerated (preferred)
Ambient - 3 days
Frozen (OK)
Gel barrier tubes
Ultrafiltration; Immunoassay (IA)
Carbamazepine, total: 4.0 - 12.0 µg/mL
Carbamazepine, free: 0.6 - 4.2 µg/mL