CPT® Code 80173

Haloperidol is a medication commonly used in the treatment of schizophrenia, a serious mental disorder characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, and sense of self. It is also utilized in managing symptoms associated with Tourette's syndrome, which includes involuntary tics and vocal utterances. The CPT® Code 80173 refers to a specific blood test that measures the level of haloperidol in the bloodstream. This monitoring is crucial as it helps healthcare providers determine the appropriate dosage of the medication for each patient, ensuring therapeutic effectiveness while minimizing the risk of toxicity. The test involves obtaining a blood specimen through a procedure known as venipuncture, which is separately reportable. The analysis of the blood serum or plasma is conducted using advanced techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC), both of which are reliable methods for accurately quantifying drug levels in the body. Regular monitoring of haloperidol levels is essential for optimizing treatment outcomes and safeguarding patient health.