Cyclosporine Blood Level (Pharmacokinetic Monitoring)
This test measures your blood levels of cyclosporine, a medication used to prevent organ rejection after a transplant or to suppress immune responses in certain autoimmune conditions. Levels are checked to ensure the drug is at an effective dose.
["Your cyclosporine dose is carefully monitored to balance safety and effectiveness."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53573-2
- Short code
- cycloSPORINE p dose Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- cycloSPORINE p dose Bld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Cyclosporine works by reducing your immune system’s activity, but too much can cause serious side effects. Blood levels help doctors adjust your dose to keep you safe while maximizing benefits. This test is especially important if you’re on a transplant medication or have a condition requiring long-term immunosuppression.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. 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. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results show your current cyclosporine concentration in your blood. Doctors use these levels to determine if your dose needs adjustment. They may check levels at different times (e.g., before or after meals) to optimize your treatment.
Common Reasons for Testing
Your doctor may order this test if you’re on cyclosporine for a transplant, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, or other conditions. They might also check levels if you’re experiencing side effects like nausea, kidney problems, or unusual fatigue, which could indicate the drug is too high or too low.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cyclosporine levels are critical for managing immunosuppression safely. Too little may mean your immune system isn’t suppressed enough, risking rejection or infection. Too much can lead to kidney damage, high blood pressure, or other toxic effects. Regular monitoring helps prevent these risks and ensures your treatment stays effective.
Short name
Cyclosporine Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I expect this test?
What happens if my cyclosporine level is too high or too low?
Can I eat or drink anything before the 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