Methylphenidate and metabolites (includes ethylphenidate)
Description:
Methylphenidate and metabolites (includes ethylphenidate) by LC-HR-MS
Clinical details:
Methylphenidate is a psychostimulant prescribed as first-line treatment in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), however it also abused for its stimulant properties. Ethylphenidate is a metabolite of methylphenidate when co-ingested with ethanol, but is also sold as a ‘legal high’. Both are metabolised to Ritalinic acid, and all are measured separately.
Reference range:
(cut-off) 500 µg/L
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Department:
Location:
Sample type and Volume required:
Random urine sample (10–20 mL) collected into a plain 30 mL universal container. Please ensure containers are tightly sealed, and are sent in a clear plastic bag separate from the accompanying request form. Please also ensure containers are labelled with the full name and date of birth of the client, and the specimen collection date and time.
Turnaround time:
3-5 working days
Special sample instructions:
Additional specialist tests by enzymatic assay (e.g. urine ethanol), immunoassay (e.g. barbiturates, benzodiazepines), and by LC-HR-MS (e.g. buprenorphine and metabolites, mephedrone, tramadol and metabolites, ketamine and metabolites, pregabalin and gabapentin - see other analytes in the ‘Our Tests’ section of the website) are available on request, and can be carried out on the same specimen as supplied originally.
Storage and transport:
Please refrigerate (if possible) if not sending immediately. Send by first class post.
Contacts:
Toxicology Department at King's Hospital
020 3299 5881
kch-tr.toxicology@nhs.net
King's College Hospital
Bessemer Wing - 3rd Floor
Denmark Hill
London SE5 9RS
Bessemer Wing - 3rd Floor
Denmark Hill
London SE5 9RS
Laboratory:
Last updated: 03/10/2022
