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Valproic Acid
MessageTest performed at York Hospital Laboratory.
Test Code
VALP
Alias/See Also
Depakote
CPT Codes
80164
Preferred Specimen
0.2 mL Serum
Instructions
Collect as a trough just before next dose.
Valproic acid samples should be monitored at a consistent time of day because concentration is affected by circadian rhythm.
Valproic acid samples should be monitored at a consistent time of day because concentration is affected by circadian rhythm.
Transport Container
Serum Separator Tube
Green Top Lithium Heparin Tube also acceptable
Green Top Lithium Heparin Tube also acceptable
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 14 days
Refrigerated: 14 days
Frozen: 14 days
Methodology
Immunoassay
Setup Schedule
Daily
Report Available
Next Day
Reference Range
50.0-120.0 ug/mL
Detection Limit: 10.0 ug/mL
Critical Values
>200.0 ug/mL
Detection Limit: 10.0 ug/mL
Critical Values
>200.0 ug/mL
Clinical Significance
Valproic Acid is used as an anticonvulsant to treat certain types of seizures, to prevent migraine headaches, and to treat various psychiatric illnesses, such as bipolar disorder and aggression. Serum valproic acid measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of valproic acid overdose and in monitoring levels of valproic acid to ensure appropriate therapy.