Parameter Set Neuroleptics 2/EXTENDED 2 - LC-MS/MS

Clinical relevance

Neuroleptics are a class of drugs with antipsychotic effects. They counteract hallucinations and delusions, and are primarily used in the treatment of schizophrenia. Their mechanism of action is attributed to their effects on synaptic impulse transmission in the central nervous system. When neuroleptics bind to specific receptors for neurotransmitters (notably dopamine), they prevent impulse transfer and thus inhibit signal transduction.

A key issue in treatment with antipsychotics is finding the right dose, a difficult and potentially time-consuming process because of significant interindividual differences. A lack of response may be pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic in origin. Inadequate patient compliance is another factor that may compromise response to treatment.

Studies have demonstrated for some psychoactive drugs that therapeutic drug monitoring improves the likelihood of response to treatment and may help to prevent side effects. This has a positive impact on patient compliance and also has cost-saving potential.

Blood level monitoring is indicated in psychiatry if for instance a medicine is being taken for the first time or dosage adjustment is necessary; if it is suspected that the patient is not taking the drug properly or at all; if adverse reactions occur; if the patient is not responding to treatment; if drug interactions are likely, or if special populations are involved (under 18 or over 65 years of age, patients with learning difficulties, special metabolic circumstances).

In addition to a number of important neuroleptics, this kit can also be used to determine guanfacine, a centrally active alpha-2 receptor agonist. Guanfacine is used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in patients who are unable to use central stimulants. Since overdosing can cause serious poisoning, patient monitoring is crucial.

To avoid interferences and enable a clear analysis, the neuroleptics were divided into two Parameter Sets, Neuroleptics 1/EXTENDED and Neuroleptics 2/EXTENDED 2.

MassTox® TDM Series A

The MassTox® TDM Series A is a modular system that enables the determination of 200 analytes without changing column or mobile phases, thereby minimising the workload in the laboratory.
It consists of 3 parts:
• MassTox® TDM Basic Kit A
• Specific MassTox® TDM Parameter Set (13 different parameter sets available)
• Analytical column MassTox® TDM MasterColumn® A

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MassSTAR

For this parameter set a CE-IVD compliant workflow method is also available using the MassSTAR to automate the sample preparation.

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