Test ID DIA Diazepam and Nordiazepam, Serum
Useful For
Assessing compliance
Monitoring for appropriate therapeutic level
Assessing toxicity
Method Name
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Reporting Name
Diazepam and Nordiazepam, SSpecimen Type
Serum RedContainer/Tube: Red top
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Forms: If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Neurology Test Request Form-General (T732) with the specimen (http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/it-mmfiles/neurology-request-form.pdf)
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Serum Red | Refrigerated (preferred) | 14 days |
Ambient | 14 days | |
Frozen | 14 days |
Clinical Information
Diazepam, a benzodiazepine derivative, is an anxiolytic agent that reduces neuronal depolarization resulting in decreased action potentials. It enhances the action of gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) by tightly binding to A-type GABA receptors, thus opening the membrane channels and allowing the entry of chloride ions. It is also used as a muscle relaxant, procedural sedation agent, and sedative-hypnotic agent to treat withdrawal states (ie, ethanol), along with other conditions (seizures).
Diazepam is metabolized to several metabolites in the liver including temazepam, oxazepam, and nordiazepam (desmethyldiazepam) and the clearance of the drug is reduced considerably in the elderly and in patients with hepatic disease.
Therapeutic assessment typically includes measurement of both the parent drug (diazepam) and the active metabolite (nordiazepam).
Cautions
No significant cautionary statements.
Day(s) Performed
Tuesday; 11 a.m.
Report Available
2 daysPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
80346
G0480 (if appropriate)