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Cefpodoxime Probenecid Concentration (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the levels of cefpodoxime, an antibiotic, and probenecid, a drug used to help maintain higher antibiotic levels in your bloodstream, in your serum or plasma.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess how your body processes these medications and may be used during treatment to monitor effectiveness and side effects."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
122-2
Short code
CEFPODOXSBT
Synonyms
Cefpodoxime Titr SBT
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top serum collection tube (no anticoagulant) or serum separator tube (SST); for pediatric collections, microtainer tubes may be used
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Serum bactericidal titer (Schlichter test) - serial two-fold dilutions of patient's serum incubated with a standardized bacterial inoculum to determine the highest dilution yielding killing of the bacterial isolate
CPT
87197
SNOMED
41850006
Specimen volume
2-5 mL whole blood (yielding approximately 1-2 mL serum); minimum 0.5 mL serum required for testing
Stability
Serum should be frozen at -70C or below if testing is delayed beyond 24 hours; refrigerated (2-8C) storage acceptable for up to 24 hours; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking cefpodoxime (an antibiotic) and probenecid (to enhance its effects) for conditions like bacterial infections. It helps ensure the right balance of these drugs in your blood to fight infection effectively while minimizing risks.

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 testing urine or saliva, follow any specific instructions your provider gives you.

What the Test Results Mean

Results show the concentration of cefpodoxime and probenecid in your blood or other fluid. Abnormal levels could indicate poor drug absorption, kidney issues, or how your body processes these medications differently than expected.

Common Reasons for Abnormal Results

Low levels might mean the drug isn’t working as intended, while high levels could signal kidney problems or allergic reactions. Your provider will discuss these findings in detail with you.

Reference range

Interpretive only - Peak titer >=1:8 generally considered indicative of adequate antibacterial activity for endocarditis and serious infections; trough titer >=1:2 often considered therapeutic for osteomyelitis and other infections. Interpretation should correlate with the specific organism isolated and infection site.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required; however, serum should be collected at appropriate time points (peak and/or trough) as directed by the ordering physician to reflect meaningful drug activity

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for tailoring antibiotic therapy to your unique physiology. It helps prevent resistance, manage side effects, and ensure the infection is fully treated. Probenecid’s role in maintaining cefpodoxime levels is especially important for certain infections where prolonged exposure is needed.

Short name

Cefpodoxime + Probenecid Levels

Frequently asked questions

What does a cefpodoxime + probenecid test measure?
It measures the amount of cefpodoxime (an antibiotic) and probenecid (a drug that helps keep cefpodoxime in your blood longer) in your blood or other fluid, such as serum or plasma.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For blood tests, you can eat and drink normally unless your provider specifies otherwise. For urine or saliva tests, follow any instructions they give you, as some tests may require fasting or specific timing.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they’re ready to discuss them.
  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