Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
The atypical antipsychotic agent olanzapine is structurally similar to clozapine, and is used in the treatment of schizophrenia and related disorders. It has high affinity for dopamine D1, D2, D4, 5HT2A, 5HT2C, 5HT3, alpha1-adrenergic, histamine H1 and five subtypes of muscarinic receptors, and has been shown to improve both the positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Olanzapine is extensively metabolised and distributed throughout the body, although the principal metabolites are thought to lack pharmacological activity. Dosage is normally 5-20 mg/d (BNF recommended limit), but some patients are given up to 60 mg/d. Dose-related side effects associated with olanzapine may include somnolence, weight gain, dizziness, peripheral oedema, and postural hypotension. Olanzapine assay can be useful to (i) assess adherence, (ii) assess adequacy of dosage, and (iii) investigate suspected acute poisoning. A steady-state reference range of 20 to 40 μg/L has been suggested (12h post-dose sample).
Specimen container paediatric:
EDTA whole blood
Specimen container adult:
EDTA whole blood
Minimum volume paediatric:
4 mL
Minimum volume adult:
4 mL
Availability:
Sample sent to an external laboratory for analysis
Reference ranges:
20 – 40 μg/L