Carbamazepine Concentration in Serum (Quantitative)
This test measures the amount of carbamazepine, a medication used to treat certain types of seizures or nerve pain, in your blood.
["Helps monitor your dose to balance effectiveness and safety."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74239-5
- Short code
- HEDIS 2014 carBAMazepine
- Synonyms
- HEDIS 2014 carBAMazepine
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4
- Ref high
- 12
- Critical range
- — – 15 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking carbamazepine to manage conditions like epilepsy, bipolar disorder, or trigeminal neuralgia. Regular monitoring helps ensure the medication is working properly and avoids side effects.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein for a blood draw. No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider if you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of carbamazepine in your blood. While exact ranges vary by lab, they help determine if your dose is appropriate. Too little may mean the medication isn’t working, while too much could increase side effects.
Common Side Effects to Watch For
Carbamazepine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, or rash. If you experience severe symptoms like trouble breathing, swelling, or irregular heartbeat, seek medical attention immediately.
Reference range
Therapeutic: 4-12 mcg/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.
Clinical Significance: Balancing Therapy and Safety
Short name
Carbamazepine Level
Frequently asked questions
Carbamazepine levels are critical for patients on long-term therapy. Optimal dosing prevents seizures or pain relief while minimizing risks like bone density loss, liver issues, or skin reactions. Regular monitoring helps adjust doses safely if needed.
Your doctor may request more frequent checks if you’re starting the medication, adjusting your dose, experiencing side effects, or have conditions like kidney disease that affect how your body processes it.
If levels are too high, your doctor may reduce your dose or switch medications to avoid serious risks like seizures, confusion, or organ damage. They’ll work with you to find the right balance.
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