Laboratory: Clinical Biochemistry  (AUTOMATED)
Test Name:
ACETAMINOPHEN - (P)
Test Code: ACTM
Clinical Information:
Acetaminophen is a common drug used for its analgesic and antipyretic properties. Acute overdose or chronic excessive use can result in hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Acetaminophen testing is used to evaluate toxicity.


Manitoba/Ontario Poison Centre recommendations:

1) Recommended Investigations for Patients with Suspected Acetaminophen Poisoning


2) Ontario Poison Centre Acetylcysteine Stopping Criteria 
Collection Devices:
Do not use separator gel.
Specimen Required:


Plasma: 2.0 mL

Collect full tube(s) of blood to applicable fill line.
Serum collected without gel is also acceptable.  
Stability 48 hours refrigerated, 4 weeks frozen
Referral:

Samples must be transferred to an aliquot tube and stored frozen if analysis will not be complete within 48 hours (#110-10-05 Serum / Plasma Separation Procedure & Transport)
Requisition:
Reference Values:
Therapeutic:                    10-20 mg/L
 
Toxic:
4 h after ingestion           >150 mg/L         (mg/L = μg/mL)
Availability:
Stat or Routine
See Also:
More Information: