GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the amount of GABA, a natural chemical in your blood that helps regulate nerve cell activity. It may be used to assess brain function or monitor conditions affecting GABA levels.
["GABA helps calm brain activity and may be checked if you have neurological concerns or certain medical conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 93121-2
- Short code
- Gabapentin Tiss Ql Scn
- Synonyms
- Gabapentin Tiss 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 sleep disorders, or if you’re being evaluated for conditions like epilepsy, brain injury, or certain neurological disorders. It could also be part of a broader assessment for metabolic or genetic disorders affecting neurotransmitters.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s a fasting sample, but confirm with your lab. Bring any medications you’re taking, as they could affect results.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm, by a healthcare professional. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed using a specialized immunoassay method to measure GABA concentration.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported as a concentration in micrograms per milliliter (µg/mL). While reference ranges vary by lab, very high or very low levels may signal underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
GABA Level
Frequently asked questions
GABA is a key inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Abnormal levels can be linked to neurological disorders, metabolic imbalances, or certain genetic syndromes. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Low GABA levels may suggest conditions like epilepsy, certain brain injuries, or metabolic disorders affecting neurotransmitter production. It’s not always directly linked to symptoms unless part of a broader evaluation.
High GABA levels are less common but could be associated with rare genetic disorders or certain medications that increase GABA. Your provider will assess this in relation to your health history and other test results.
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