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Symmetric Dimethylarginine (SDMA)

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

SDMA is a biomarker that measures renal function and is associated with cardiovascular risk. It is used to assess kidney health and can indicate early stages of kidney disease.

Quick summary

SDMA is a biomarker for assessing kidney function and cardiovascular risk.

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

Key facts at a glance

Units
μmol/L
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche SDMA, IDEXX SDMA
interpretation: {"text":"SDMA levels between 0–40 μmol/L are considered within the normal range.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":"SDMA levels above 40 μmol/L may indicate impaired kidney function and increased cardiovascular risk.","label":"Elevated"}

SDMA, or Symmetric Dimethylarginine, is a methylated form of the amino acid arginine. It is primarily used as a marker for kidney function but has also been linked to cardiovascular health.

Elevated levels of SDMA can indicate reduced kidney function, which is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This makes SDMA a valuable tool for early detection of potential health issues.

The normal reference range for SDMA is typically between 0–40 μmol/L. Levels above this range may require further investigation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Frequently asked questions

What does an elevated SDMA level mean?
An elevated SDMA level may indicate reduced kidney function and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
How is SDMA different from creatinine?
SDMA is a more sensitive marker for kidney function compared to creatinine, as it is less influenced by muscle mass and diet.
  1. 1
    Symmetric Dimethylarginine as a Marker of Renal Function and Cardiovascular RiskSource
  2. 2
    SDMA as a Novel Marker of Renal FunctionSource

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