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HelpTest Code QUIN Quinidine, Serum
Specimen Required
Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)
Collection Container/Tube: Red top (serum gel/SST are not acceptable)
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL
Collection Instructions: Within 2 hours of collection, centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Secondary ID
8302Useful For
Assessing and adjusting quinidine dosage for optimal therapeutic level
Assessing quinidine toxicity
Method Name
Kinetic Interaction of Microparticles in Solution (KIMS)
Reporting Name
Quinidine, SSpecimen Type
Serum RedSpecimen Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serum Red | Refrigerated (preferred) | 14 days | |
| Frozen | 28 days | ||
| Ambient | 14 days |
Reject Due To
| Gross hemolysis | Reject |
Clinical Information
Quinidine is indicated for atrial fibrillation and flutter, and life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia. Optimal serum concentrations are in the range of 2.0 to 5.0 mcg/mL, with toxicity apparent at levels of 6.0 mcg/mL or higher. Symptoms of toxicity (cinchonism) include tinnitus, light-headedness, premature ventricular contractions, and atrioventricular block. Gastrointestinal distress is a frequent side effect that becomes more severe and is associated with nausea and vomiting at higher drug concentrations.
The half-life of quinidine is 6 to 8 hours. Physiologic processes that generally reduce hepatic metabolism and renal clearance increase serum quinidine levels, while comedication with cytochrome p450 (CYP)-enzyme inducers enhances clearance and results in lower blood concentrations.
Reference Values
Therapeutic: 2.0-5.0 mcg/mL
Critical value: ≥6.0 mcg/mL
Interpretation
Optimal response to quinidine occurs when the serum level is between 2.0 to 5.0 mcg/mL.
CPT Code Information
80194
LOINC Code Information
| Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| QUIN | Quinidine, S | 6694-4 |
| Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| 8302 | Quinidine, S | 6694-4 |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Therapeutics Test Request (T831) with the specimen.