Serum/plasma concentration of clindamycin (antibiotic) measured by immunoassay
This test checks the amount of clindamycin, a prescription antibiotic, in your blood to monitor your treatment and ensure safe dosing.
["This test helps doctors track how your body is responding to clindamycin and prevent potential side effects."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73437-6
- Short code
- Clindamycin ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Clindamycin ind plt IgG 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 order this test if you’re taking clindamycin to treat infections like bacterial skin infections, respiratory infections, or certain types of pneumonia. It helps ensure the right amount of the drug is in your bloodstream to fight the infection effectively while minimizing risks.
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 blood. If you’re on clindamycin, your provider may ask you to stop taking it temporarily before the test, depending on the timing of your dose.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general reference range for clindamycin levels in blood. Low levels may indicate the drug isn’t working well, while very high levels could signal toxicity or improper dosing. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your medical history and treatment plan.
Possible Side Effects
Clindamycin can cause side effects like diarrhea, nausea, or allergic reactions. If you experience severe symptoms like rash, difficulty breathing, or signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills), seek medical attention immediately.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Clindamycin Level
Frequently asked questions
Clindamycin is used to treat serious bacterial infections. Monitoring its blood levels helps prevent resistance, ensures adequate coverage of the infection, and avoids overuse or underuse of the medication, which can lead to antibiotic resistance or ineffective treatment.
Will I need to stop taking clindamycin before the test?
What if my results are outside the normal range?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy