Serum or Plasma Concentration of Gabapentin
This test measures the amount of gabapentin, a medication used to treat certain types of seizures and nerve pain, in your blood.
["Knowing your gabapentin levels helps your healthcare provider monitor your dose and adjust it as needed."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9738-6
- Short code
- Gabapentin SerPlBld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Gabapentin SerPlBld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 doctor may order this test if you’re taking gabapentin to check if your dose is working properly. It can also help detect if your body is processing the medication effectively or if you’re experiencing side effects.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (venipuncture) in your arm to draw blood. If you’re concerned about needles, let your healthcare provider know.
What the Test Results Mean
Results help your doctor assess whether your gabapentin levels are within the target range for your condition. Abnormally high or low levels might indicate issues like poor absorption, metabolism problems, or improper dosing.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often done during follow-up visits, especially if you’re adjusting your gabapentin dose. It may also be used if you’re experiencing symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or unusual tiredness that could relate to medication levels.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Gabapentin levels are critical for managing conditions like epilepsy or neuropathic pain. Uncontrolled levels can lead to ineffective treatment or toxicity, which may cause side effects such as drowsiness, coordination problems, or even severe reactions in rare cases. Regular monitoring helps prevent these risks.
Short name
Gabapentin Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I expect this test?
What are typical symptoms that might lead to this test?
Can I stop taking gabapentin 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy