Ceftazidime (Serum or Plasma Concentration)
This test measures the amount of the antibiotic ceftazidime in your blood. It helps doctors monitor how well your body is responding to this medication.
["This test helps ensure your antibiotic treatment is working properly and adjusts dosing if needed."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73043-2
- Short code
- CEFT-NAB
- Synonyms
- cefTAZidime (neut) IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube for serum; EDTA or heparin tube acceptable for plasma
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 86022
- SNOMED
- 313939003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum or plasma
- Stability
- Stable for 24 hours at room temperature (20-25°C); up to 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors order ceftazidime levels when you’re taking this antibiotic, often for serious infections like bacterial meningitis, pneumonia, or bloodstream infections. It helps track how much of the drug is in your bloodstream to prevent side effects or resistance.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort.
What the Results Mean
Results help doctors decide if your dose should stay the same, be increased, or be adjusted. Low levels may mean the drug isn’t working, while very high levels could indicate side effects or improper dosing.
Possible Side Effects or Risks
While rare, high levels of ceftazidime can cause side effects like kidney problems or allergic reactions. Your doctor will watch your levels closely to keep you safe.
Reference range
Negative (no detectable ceftazidime-induced neutrophil IgM antibodies)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should ideally be collected before the next dose of ceftazidime when investigating suspected drug-induced neutropenia.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Regular ceftazidime levels are critical for infections requiring long-term treatment. They prevent antibiotic resistance by ensuring the drug remains effective and avoid overuse, which can harm your kidneys or cause other complications.
Short name
Ceftazidime Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this blood test?
What if my levels are too low or too high?
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