Serum/plasma concentration of escitalopram (antidepressant medication)
This test measures the amount of escitalopram, a medication used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, in your blood.
["Your doctor may check this level to ensure the medication is working properly and to adjust your dose if needed."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73026-7
- Short code
- Escitalopram (neut) IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Escitalopram (neut) IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- chemistry
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking escitalopram to monitor your response to treatment, check for side effects, or adjust your dose. It helps ensure the medication is at an effective concentration in your bloodstream.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re taking this test for routine monitoring, your provider may ask you to stop certain medications temporarily, but this depends on your specific situation.
What the Results Mean
Results help your doctor determine if your escitalopram levels are within the therapeutic range. Too low levels might mean the medication isn’t working as intended, while too high levels could indicate side effects or toxicity. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Possible Side Effects or Considerations
Escitalopram is generally safe when used as directed, but high levels in the blood can sometimes cause dizziness, nausea, or other symptoms. If you experience unusual symptoms, discuss them with your doctor.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Monitoring escitalopram levels is particularly important in patients who have difficulty adhering to their medication regimen, those with liver or kidney issues, or those taking other medications that could affect how escitalopram is processed in the body. It helps optimize treatment and reduce risks of adverse effects.
Short name
Escitalopram Level
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor want to check my escitalopram level?
What if my test 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