Serum or plasma concentration of serotonin (mass concentration)
This test measures the amount of serotonin, a chemical messenger in your body, found in your blood serum or plasma. Serotonin plays a key role in mood regulation and other bodily functions.
["Understanding your serotonin levels can help assess mood, digestive health, or potential imbalances."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50073-6
- Short code
- 11DC 30M p 250 ug ACTH SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- 11DC 30M p 250 ug ACTH SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 60
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like depression, anxiety, digestive issues (such as irritable bowel syndrome), or other conditions linked to serotonin levels. It may also be used to monitor treatment responses for conditions like serotonin syndrome or serotonin-related disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your blood is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure serotonin concentration. The test uses a specialized immunoassay method to detect and quantify serotonin accurately.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., micrograms per deciliter). While reference ranges can vary by lab, abnormal results may indicate either too much or too little serotonin in your body, which can affect mood, digestion, or other health aspects.
Reference range
NCBI: ACTH 10-60 pg/mLN/A
Typically collected in the morning (8-10 AM). Inform your provider if taking steroid medications.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Serotonin levels can be important in diagnosing or managing conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, or gastrointestinal disorders. Low serotonin is often linked to mood disorders, while high levels may be associated with serotonin syndrome (a rare but serious condition). Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Serotonin Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes serotonin levels to change?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet or supplements affect serotonin levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy