GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the amount of GABA, a natural chemical in your blood that helps regulate brain activity. It may be used to assess neurological function or monitor conditions affecting GABA levels.
["GABA helps calm brain activity and may be checked if you have symptoms related to brain chemistry or neurological disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 103668-0
- Short code
- Gabapentin TissCo Ql Scn
- Synonyms
- Gabapentin TissCo Ql Scn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- screen
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like seizures, anxiety, or movement disorders. It could also be part of evaluating conditions such as epilepsy, brain injury, or certain brain tumors. Sometimes, it’s checked in people with known neurological issues or those taking medications that affect GABA levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may fast before the test if instructed, but your provider will let you know. Bring a list of medications you’re taking, as some can affect test results. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the blood draw.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for testing using a specialized method to measure GABA levels.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general range of what’s considered normal for healthy adults. Low levels of GABA might suggest certain neurological conditions, while very high levels could be linked to specific metabolic or genetic disorders. Your provider will discuss your results in the context of your health history and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
GABA is a key neurotransmitter that helps reduce nerve activity in the brain. Abnormal levels can be associated with conditions like epilepsy, autism spectrum disorders, or other neurological or psychiatric conditions. It may also be checked in research or clinical studies investigating brain chemistry.
Short name
GABA Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if my results are outside the normal range?
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