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Cimetidine in Plasma (or Serum)

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

This test measures the amount of cimetidine, a medication used to reduce stomach acid, in your blood.

Quick summary

["Knowing your cimetidine levels helps doctors check if your dose is working properly."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73446-7
Short code
Cimetidine ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
Cimetidine 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

What Is Cimetidine?

Cimetidine is a histamine H₂-receptor antagonist prescribed to treat conditions like ulcers, heartburn, or excessive stomach acid. It works by blocking receptors that signal the stomach to produce acid.

How Is This Test Done?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test to monitor how well cimetidine is working, check for side effects, or adjust your medication dose based on your blood levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or recent changes in your health before testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Cimetidine levels can help assess therapeutic effectiveness, detect toxicity (e.g., confusion, dizziness), or identify interactions with other medications that may affect its metabolism.

Short name

Cimetidine Level

Frequently asked questions

Why did my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may have ordered this test to evaluate your response to cimetidine treatment, check for potential side effects, or ensure proper dosing based on your condition.
What are the typical reference ranges for cimetidine?
Reference ranges for cimetidine levels vary by lab and can depend on factors like dosage and individual metabolism. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your treatment plan.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can typically eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Avoid alcohol or other medications that may interact with cimetidine before testing.
  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