Cyclosporine Drug Level (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the concentration of cyclosporine, a medication used to suppress the immune system, often prescribed for organ transplants or autoimmune conditions. It helps ensure your dose is properly managed to avoid side effects or rejection.
["Your cyclosporine level helps doctors balance safety and effectiveness of your medication."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73426-9
- Short code
- cycloSPORINE ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- cycloSPORINE 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
Why This Test Matters
Cyclosporine is a powerful drug that works by lowering your immune system’s activity. Keeping your levels within a target range is critical to prevent complications like organ rejection or excessive immune suppression. Your doctor may order this test to monitor your response to treatment, especially if you’re on a transplant program or have a condition requiring long-term immunosuppression.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw a blood sample. It usually takes a few minutes. If you’re taking cyclosporine orally, it’s best to have your blood drawn at a similar time each day to track levels accurately.
How the Results Are Used
Your results will be compared to a target range set by your healthcare provider. If levels are too high, it may increase your risk of side effects like kidney problems or infections. If levels are too low, your body might reject a transplanted organ or your condition could worsen. Your doctor will adjust your dose based on these findings.
Common Side Effects to Watch For
Cyclosporine can cause side effects like high blood pressure, kidney issues, or increased risk of infections. If you experience nausea, tremors, or unusual fatigue, let your doctor know—these could signal your levels are off target.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Regular cyclosporine level monitoring is essential for patients on long-term immunosuppression. It helps prevent complications like organ rejection, infections, or chronic kidney damage. Doctors use these results to optimize dosing and ensure the medication remains effective while minimizing risks. Levels may vary based on factors like diet, other medications, or how your body processes the drug.
Short name
Cyclosporine Level
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What if my test results are outside the normal range?
Can diet or other medications affect 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