Serum/plasma concentration of epinephrine (adrenaline)
This test measures the amount of epinephrine, a natural chemical in your body that helps regulate your heart rate, blood pressure, and stress response.
["Epinephrine levels help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting your adrenal glands or stress reactions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73542-3
- Short code
- Albuterol ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Albuterol ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check for adrenal gland issues, such as pheochromocytoma (a tumor that causes high blood pressure and other symptoms) or adrenal insufficiency. It can also help evaluate unusual stress responses or reactions to certain medications.
What Does a High or Low Level Mean?
High levels may suggest conditions like pheochromocytoma, severe stress, or certain medications. Low levels could indicate adrenal gland problems or medications that suppress epinephrine production.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then separated into serum or plasma for testing. This process is quick and typically done in a doctor’s office or lab.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could affect results. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Epinephrine is critical for managing life-threatening situations like anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions. Abnormal levels can signal underlying health issues, such as hormonal imbalances, tumors, or chronic stress responses. Monitoring these levels helps guide treatment for conditions like adrenal disorders or stress-related illnesses.
Short name
Serum/plasma epinephrine
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal epinephrine levels?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy