OVERVIEW
What is methadone (urine) lab test?
Methadone sold as Dolophine is a synthetic (artificial) opioid which binds to its receptors in the body and induces effects like analgesia (pain relief) and sedation. It is equipotent (equally powerful) to morphine and is utilized for treating opioid dependency (self-restraint from abusing opioids) , and as heroin substitute in heroin addiction patients. It is good as it does not produce euphoria (feeling of happiness) and has less withdrawal symptoms when compared to heroin and other opioids. Hence, this test is indicated for measuring methadone amount excreted in urine.
Why is methadone (urine) lab test done:
The test is done:
- As it helps in detecting exposure to methadone for monitoring of compliance in taking prescribed medicine
- For monitoring compliance (fulfillment) in rehabilitation programs
- For evaluating toxicity or detecting drug abuse
- In individuals undergoing treatment for opioid abstinence syndrome
- In individuals getting treatment for heroin addiction
WHAT DOES THE TEST MEASURE?
This test measures the presence of methadone in the urine. Methadone can be detected in blood 15 to 45 minutes after oral administration, with peak levels occurring at 2.5 to 4 hours. The elimination of half-life has a mean value of approximately 22 hours.
- Why is the effect of urine pH on methadone testing?
Urine pH shows great effect on ability to detect methadone, and hence, EDDP metabolite is preferable for urine measurements in methadone monitoring.
- What methods can be used for methadone detection?
Methods like immunoassays EIA are commonly used.
- What is methadone urine test?
This medicine is detectable in urine up to 72 hours since last ingestion. Therefore, methadone screening can be done via urine sample which detects concentration of methadone 300 ng/mL or greater.
- What is meant by positive methadone result?
It shows that patient has got more than specific amount of methadone in the body.
- What can make methadone result turn false positive?
If diphenhydramine is administered prior to test, you can have false positive result for opiates, methadone & PCP.
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULTS:
The reference ranges include:
- Methadone normal: less than 100 mg/mL
- EDDP (methadone metabolite) normal: less than 100 ng/mL
- The level of methadone and its metabolite in urine is variable and does not relate with the dose of methadone taken.
You get tested for evaluation of toxicity or drug abuse; or for monitoring and checking patient compliance to opioid withdrawal therapy.