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Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP)

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

BNP is a hormone released by the heart in response to changes in blood pressure and volume, serving as a marker for heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions.

Quick summary

BNP is a biomarker used to diagnose heart failure and assess its severity.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
pg/mL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Abbott ARCHITECT BNP, Siemens ADVIA Centaur BNP, Beckman Coulter Access BNP
interpretation: {"text":"BNP levels below 10 pg/mL are generally considered normal and suggest a low likelihood of heart failure.","label":"Low BNP"}; {"text":"BNP levels above 100 pg/mL may indicate heart failure or other cardiovascular conditions requiring further evaluation.","label":"High BNP"}

Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) is a hormone produced by the heart ventricles in response to increased pressure and volume. It helps regulate blood pressure, fluid balance, and cardiac function.

Elevated levels of BNP in the blood are indicative of heart failure, with higher levels correlating with more severe disease. BNP testing aids in the diagnosis and monitoring of heart failure.

The reference range for BNP is typically between 10–100 pg/mL. Levels above this range may suggest heart failure, while levels below may indicate other cardiac or non-cardiac conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the normal range for BNP?
The normal range for BNP is typically between 10–100 pg/mL.
What does a high BNP level mean?
A high BNP level may indicate heart failure, but it can also be elevated in other conditions such as kidney disease or pulmonary hypertension.
  1. 1
    American Heart Association: BNP TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic: BNP TestSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy