Skip to content

Bupropion concentration in serum/plasma

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

This test measures the amount of the antidepressant medication bupropion in your blood. It helps monitor your drug levels to ensure they’re within the safe range for your treatment.

Quick summary

["Your doctor may order this test to check if your bupropion dose is working properly or if adjustments are needed."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73497-0
Short code
buPROPion ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
buPROPion 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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may request this test if you’re taking bupropion (a prescription antidepressant) to verify your blood levels. This helps prevent side effects or ensure the medication is effective. It’s also used in cases of suspected overdose or to adjust your dose based on your response to treatment.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw blood. If you’re taking bupropion regularly, your blood will be collected at a consistent time (often before or after your dose). If this is for an overdose concern, your blood may be drawn immediately.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a reference range specific to bupropion, which can vary by lab and patient factors. Too-high or too-low levels may signal issues like poor absorption, metabolism problems, or ineffective treatment. Your doctor will interpret results in relation to your symptoms and medical history.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors order this test to: confirm therapeutic drug levels, check for overdose, adjust doses for better control of symptoms, or investigate unexplained side effects (e.g., confusion, seizures). It’s not a routine screening test unless you’re actively using bupropion.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Bupropion Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my test results back?
Results typically arrive within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Follow-up with your doctor is needed to discuss any findings, especially if levels are outside expected ranges.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No fasting is required, but avoid caffeine or alcohol for 24 hours before testing if instructed by your provider. If this is for an overdose concern, your blood may be drawn immediately regardless of diet.
What if my levels are too high or too low?
If levels are too high, your doctor may reduce your dose or switch medications. If levels are too low, they might increase your dose or check for interactions with other drugs. Always discuss results with your provider—they’ll guide next steps based on your health.
  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