Description
Phenobarbital is used in the treatment of epileptic seizures and to control convulsions caused by poisoning or fever. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, anorexia and dizziness. It is important to monitor Phenobarbital in children primarily for reasons of non-compliance and interactions with other drugs.
Indications
Measurement of Phenobarbital level is used to monitor the dose of the drug in order to avoid its toxic effect and maintain the desired therapeutic effect.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
1 ml Serum EDTA, Heparin, Citrated Plasma Room Temperature Panic Values: > 50 μg/mL
Special Precautions
Peak level is variable, but usually 4-10 Hrs after the dose. The steady state concentration is at 5-20 days.Sampling time should be within this time frame.
Normal Range
Therapeutic Range: 15 - 40 μg/mL Toxic Level: > 50 μg/mL Panic Values: > 50 μg/mL
