Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay for Total Toxic Anticonvulsant Drugs (Serum)
This test measures the total concentration of certain medications used to prevent seizures in the blood. It helps doctors monitor whether your dose is effective and safe.
["Your seizure medication levels are checked to prevent side effects and ensure proper control of seizures."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 80351-0
- Short code
- ETEC ltA+st1a+st1b tox St NAA+non-probe
- Synonyms
- ETEC ltA+st1a+st1b tox St NAA+non-probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors order this test if you’re taking anticonvulsant medications (like carbamazepine, phenytoin, valproate, or others) to manage epilepsy or seizure disorders. It helps adjust your medication to avoid both too little (which may not control seizures) and too much (which can cause serious side effects).
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. This is usually done in a lab or clinic setting.
What the Test Results Mean
Results show the total amount of anticonvulsant drugs in your blood. They’re used to guide your doctor’s decisions about your medication dose. If levels are too low, your seizures may return. If they’re too high, you might experience dizziness, nausea, or other side effects.
Common Medications Tested
This test typically includes common anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, valproate, lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine, and others. Always confirm with your doctor which specific medications are being measured.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Maintaining proper anticonvulsant levels is critical for seizure control and preventing serious health risks. Low levels may fail to control seizures, while high levels can cause toxicity, including liver damage, bone thinning, or cognitive issues. Regular monitoring helps balance safety and effectiveness.
Short name
Total Anticonvulsant Drug Level (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What happens if my test results are abnormal?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy