Serum/plasma concentration of propranolol (β-blocker)
This test measures the amount of propranolol, a medication used to treat heart conditions, high blood pressure, and anxiety, in your blood.
["Knowing your propranolol levels helps your doctor monitor your dose and ensure it’s working safely for your condition."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47896-6
- Short code
- GH 1h p propranolol+Gc SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- GH 1h p propranolol+Gc SerPl-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- 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 propranolol to check whether your dose is appropriate. It helps prevent side effects like low blood pressure or too slow of a heart rate, especially if you’re taking higher doses or have certain health conditions.
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 blood. If you’re on a long-term medication like propranolol, your doctor may recommend testing at a steady time in your cycle (e.g., morning) to get consistent results.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general range for healthy adults, but your doctor will interpret them based on your specific needs, dose, and health status. Very high or very low levels can signal issues like poor absorption, liver problems, or interactions with other medications.
Common Reasons for Testing
Doctors test propranolol levels to adjust your medication if you’re experiencing side effects (e.g., dizziness, fatigue) or symptoms aren’t improving. It’s also used in cases of overdose or suspected drug interactions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Propranolol levels are critical for managing conditions like arrhythmias, angina, or hypertension. Abnormal levels can indicate improper dosing, liver dysfunction (which affects drug metabolism), or drug interactions (e.g., with other medications metabolized by the same liver enzymes). Your doctor will use these results to optimize your treatment plan and avoid complications.
Short name
Propranolol Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What are typical symptoms if my levels are too high or too low?
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