Test Directory

Test Code
MTHDB
Test Name
Methadone, Quantitative, Blood
CPT Codes
AMA 80358, CMS G0480
Expected Turnaround Time
5 - 7 days
Clinical Utility

Useful in determining the use or abuse of Methadone.

Testing includes identification and quantitation of:

  • Methadone
  • EDDP (Methadone Metabolite)
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen

Container

Volume

Whole Blood

Grey Top* (Sodium Fluoride, Potassium Oxalate)

3 mL

Whole Blood

Dark Green Top (Lithium Heparin)

3 mL

Whole Blood

Lavender Top (EDTA)

3 mL

Serum

Red Top, Plain

1 mL

*Preferred Specimen

Processing and Submission Instructions

For forensic or legal purposes, submit specimen in a plastic evidence bag with a Chain-of-Custody Form

Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated.

Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

 7 days

Refrigerated

 7 days

Causes for Rejection

Specimens collected in separator tubes will be rejected.

Methodology
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Reference Intervals

 Analyte

Therapeutic Range (ng/mL)

Methadone

75-1100

EDDP (methadone metabolite)

Not established

Limitations

Analyte

Reporting Limit (ng/mL)

Methadone

10

EDDP (Methadone metabolite)

10

Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Alternate Names
  • Dolophine
  • Methadose
Testing Schedule
Routine, 2 times per week