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Corticosteroid (Budesonide) Measurement in Biological Fluid

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of the steroid medication budesonide in your body fluids, often used to assess drug levels in the bloodstream after administration.

Quick summary

["This test helps monitor how your body is processing your medication."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73501-9
Short code
Budesonide ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
Budesonide ind plt IgG 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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you’re taking budesonide—a steroid medication—to check if your dose is working as intended. It can help adjust your treatment plan, especially if you’re using it for conditions like asthma, COPD, or inflammatory diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but your doctor may ask you to stop certain medications temporarily or avoid specific foods/drinks that could interfere with results. Bring a list of all current medications to your appointment.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood is then processed to separate the fluid (serum or plasma) for testing. The lab analyzes the fluid using a sensitive detection method to measure budesonide levels.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a concentration (e.g., micrograms per liter). Your doctor will compare these results to your expected therapeutic range to determine if your medication levels are optimal for your condition. Abnormal results may prompt adjustments to your dose or treatment.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Budesonide Level

Frequently asked questions

What does this test measure?
This test measures the concentration of the steroid drug budesonide in your blood or plasma. It helps evaluate whether your medication is being absorbed and maintained at the correct levels in your body.
What are the typical reference ranges?
Reference ranges can vary by lab and individual factors. Your doctor will provide your specific target range based on your medical needs and treatment plan.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Generally, no special diet or fasting is required for this test. However, your doctor may give specific instructions depending on your overall health or other medications you’re taking.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy