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B-type 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, helping to diagnose heart failure and assess its severity.

Quick summary

BNP is a key biomarker for diagnosing heart failure and assessing 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 i-STAT BNP, Siemens ADVIA BNP
interpretation: {"text":"BNP levels below 100 pg/mL generally indicate a low probability of heart failure.","label":"Low BNP"}; {"text":"BNP levels above 450 pg/mL may suggest heart failure and require further clinical evaluation.","label":"High BNP"}

B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) is a hormone produced by the heart ventricles in response to excessive stretching of heart muscle cells. It plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure, blood volume, and sodium balance.

Elevated levels of BNP in the blood are indicative of heart failure, as the heart releases more BNP to manage the increased pressure and volume. This makes BNP a valuable diagnostic tool for heart failure.

The reference range for BNP is typically 0–450 pg/mL. Levels above this range may suggest heart failure, while levels within the range may indicate the absence of significant heart dysfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What does a high BNP level mean?
A high BNP level, typically above 450 pg/mL, may indicate heart failure or other cardiac conditions that increase the pressure in the heart.
Can BNP levels change over time?
Yes, BNP levels can fluctuate based on the patient's condition, treatment, and other factors. Regular monitoring is often necessary.
  1. 1
    B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) TestSource
  2. 2
    BNP and NT-proBNP - Lab Tests OnlineSource

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