Medicine Blood Level Test
Test Overview
A medicine blood level test measures how much of your medicine is in your blood. Your doctor checks it to make sure that you are taking a safe and effective dose. This testing is also called therapeutic drug monitoring.
This information is about medicines that are not used to control seizures.
Certain types of medicine need to be monitored because:
- At a low blood level, they don't work as well as they should.
- At a high blood level, they may cause problems.
Your doctor may use your test results to adjust your dose.
You may need testing when you take medicines such as:
- Cyclosporine and tacrolimus, which help control the immune system.
- Digoxin, which helps the heart pump blood better.
- Gentamicin and vancomycin, which are antibiotics.
- Lithium, which affects brain chemicals.
Depending on the kind of medicine you take, your doctor may schedule your test at a certain time of day. For example, you may have your test in the morning, before you take your medicine. Or your test might be after you take your medicine.
When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
A medicine blood level test measures how much of your medicine is in your blood. Your doctor checks it to make sure that you're taking a safe and effective dose. This testing is also called therapeutic drug monitoring.
The medicine blood level is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors to help decide whether you are taking the right amount of medicine.
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.