VALPROIC ACID

Test Code

LAB24

Alias/See Also

DEPAKOTE

CPT Codes
80164

Preferred Specimen

7 mL red top tube

Minimum Volume

2.0 mL

Instructions

Specimens for Valproic acid analysis should be drawn just prior to dose, preferably in the fasting state. More frequent monitoring may be necessary when administering Valproic acid in the presence or during the withdrawal of other anti-epileptic agents.

Transport Temperature

Refrigerate

Methodology
Homogeneous Enzyme Immunoassay

Setup Schedule

Set Up:Daily Report Available:same day

Reference Range

Therapeutic: 50 - 100 ug/mL
Critical: >125 ug/mL

Clinical Significance

Valproic acid (VPA; 2-propylpentanoic acid; Depakene) is a relatively new anticonvulsant medication which is used chiefly for the treatment of primary and secondary generalized seizures, but is also effective against absence seizures. It is particularly effective in myoclonus, and is the drug of choice in photosensitive epilepsy. Although VPA is used in conjunction with other anti-epileptic medications, more recent studies have shown benefits of converting treatment to monotherapy with VPA. Also, a growing body of evidence suggests that VPA is useful in treatment of affective disorders; in particular, lithium-insensitive bipolar disorders

Performing Laboratory
GBMC Chemistry

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.