Cefepime Antibiotic Level (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the amount of the antibiotic cefepime in your blood. It helps doctors determine if your dose is working properly and whether you need adjustments.
["This test helps ensure your antibiotic is at the right level to fight infection safely."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73045-7
- Short code
- CEFNEUTM
- Synonyms
- Cefepime (neut) IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top clot tube; plasma collected in EDTA or heparin tube acceptable
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 86021
- SNOMED
- 395146007
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL of whole blood yielding 1-2 mL of serum or plasma
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C or below) for up to 30 days; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 48–120 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you’re taking cefepime, a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections like pneumonia, sepsis, or infections in the blood, bones, or joints. It helps monitor how well your body is responding to the medication and prevents potential side effects.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw a blood sample. It usually takes a few minutes. If you’re on IV cefepime, your doctor may check levels during or shortly after treatment.
What the Results Mean
Results help doctors decide if your dose is too high (which could cause side effects) or too low (which might mean the infection isn’t fully treated). Exact values are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your condition and treatment plan.
Common Side Effects & Risks
Cefepime is generally well-tolerated, but possible side effects include nausea, diarrhea, or allergic reactions. Rarely, it may cause kidney issues or nerve damage. Your doctor will watch for these and adjust your treatment as needed.
Reference range
Negative (antibody not detected)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to administration of next dose if clinically feasible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Cefepime Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Can I drink water before the blood draw?
Will this test affect my other medications?
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy