Skip to content

Ciprofloxacin Concentration (Serum or Plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin in your blood. It helps doctors check how well your body is responding to the medication.

Quick summary

["This test helps ensure your antibiotic dose is effective and safe."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42644-5
Short code
Deprecated Ciprofloxacin 2 ug/mL Islt Sl
Synonyms
Deprecated Ciprofloxacin 2 ug/mL Islt Sl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
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 healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking ciprofloxacin (a fluoroquinolone antibiotic) to treat or prevent infections. It helps monitor your drug levels, especially if you have kidney issues or take other medications that might affect how ciprofloxacin works in your body.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw a blood sample. If you’re on dialysis, your provider may collect a sample from your dialysis fluid instead.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are typically reported in micrograms per milliliter (µg/mL). Your doctor will compare these results to your specific dose and medical needs to adjust treatment if needed. Very high or low levels may indicate problems with absorption, metabolism, or kidney function.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors may order this test if you’re taking ciprofloxacin for a long-term infection, have kidney problems, or are taking other medications that could interact with it. It’s also used to check if the drug is working properly in your system.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Cipro Level

Frequently asked questions

What might cause this test to be ordered?
Your doctor may order this test if you’re taking ciprofloxacin to treat or prevent infections, especially if you have kidney disease, are on dialysis, or are taking other medications that could affect how ciprofloxacin is processed in your body. It helps ensure the drug is at an effective level without causing harmful side effects.
How long will I need to wait for my results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will contact you directly with the findings.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor instructs otherwise. No fasting is required for this blood test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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