Cyclosporine trough level (whole blood, mass concentration)
This test measures the lowest level of cyclosporine in your blood just before the next dose. Cyclosporine is a medication used to prevent organ rejection after a transplant or to treat certain autoimmune conditions.
["Your doctor uses this test to ensure your cyclosporine level stays within the safe range for your treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53828-0
- Short code
- cycloSPORINE Trough Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- cycloSPORINE Trough 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking cyclosporine to manage a condition like organ transplant rejection or autoimmune diseases. Trough levels help monitor whether your dose is effective and safe, preventing both too-high (which can cause side effects) and too-low (which may not work properly) levels.
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 a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless. If you’re on cyclosporine, your provider may schedule this test at a specific time (e.g., just before your next dose).
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to your doctor’s target range, which depends on your condition, dose, and other factors. If levels are too high or too low, your provider may adjust your medication schedule or dosage.
Common Side Effects of Cyclosporine
High levels of cyclosporine can cause side effects like kidney problems, high blood pressure, or increased risk of infections. Low levels may mean your medication isn’t working as intended. Your provider will watch your results closely.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cyclosporine trough levels are critical for balancing effectiveness and safety. Too little may lead to organ rejection or treatment failure, while too much can harm organs like the kidneys or liver. Regular monitoring helps avoid these risks.
Short name
Cyclosporine Blood Level (Trough)
Frequently asked questions
Why do doctors check trough levels specifically?
What happens if my trough level is too high?
Can I eat or drink before this blood 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