Serum Concentration of Clofazimine (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of clofazimine, a medication used to treat certain types of tuberculosis and leprosy, in your blood serum. It helps your healthcare provider monitor your drug levels to ensure proper dosing.
["This test helps track how well your body is processing clofazimine and ensures safe, effective treatment levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 20376-0
- Short code
- Clofazimine Islt SlowMyco
- Synonyms
- Clofazimine Islt SlowMyco
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- method-for-slow-growing-mycobacteria
- 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 doctor may order this test if you’re taking clofazimine to check if your blood levels are within the recommended range. This helps prevent side effects or insufficient treatment. Clofazimine is often used in combination with other medications for complex infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. A small blood sample will be drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s quick and painless. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a mass concentration (e.g., micrograms per milliliter). Your doctor will interpret these results in relation to your treatment plan, considering factors like your weight, kidney function, and other medications you’re taking.
Possible Side Effects or Considerations
Clofazimine can cause skin discoloration (turning pink, red, or purple) or gastrointestinal issues like nausea or diarrhea. If you experience severe side effects, such as rash, fever, or unusual fatigue, contact your doctor immediately.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormally low clofazimine levels may indicate insufficient medication absorption or metabolism, potentially requiring dose adjustments. High levels could signal toxicity or improper dosing. Regular monitoring is crucial for patients with kidney or liver issues, as these organs play a role in drug processing.
Short name
Clofazimine Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What if my results are outside the expected range?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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