Hydralazine-induced plasma protein binding index (or qualitative assessment of protein binding changes)
This test evaluates how hydralazine—a medication used to treat high blood pressure—may affect the binding of proteins in your blood plasma. Changes in protein binding can influence how your body processes and responds to medications.
["This screening helps monitor how your body interacts with hydralazine over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73354-3
- Short code
- hydrALAZINE ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- hydrALAZINE ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- 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
What This Test Measures
Hydralazine is metabolized in your liver and binds to proteins in your blood, such as albumin. This test assesses whether the binding of hydralazine to proteins is altered, which could affect its effectiveness or side effects. The measurement is qualitative (not a specific numeric value), focusing on qualitative shifts rather than precise concentrations.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking hydralazine long-term or if you have conditions that affect protein levels (e.g., liver disease, kidney disease, or severe dehydration). It helps ensure your medication is working as intended and identifies potential issues early.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your test involves a fasting component (though this test is typically drawn without fasting). Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be processed to analyze how hydralazine interacts with your plasma proteins. The result is qualitative, meaning it indicates whether binding patterns are altered rather than providing a specific measurement.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Changes in protein binding of hydralazine can impact its pharmacokinetics (how your body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes it). For example, if proteins bind less hydralazine, your dose may need adjustment to avoid toxicity or reduced effectiveness. This test helps identify if your body’s protein levels or metabolism are affecting medication response.
Short name
Hydralazine Protein Binding Screen
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I’m having side effects from hydralazine?
How often should I get this test?
Can I stop taking hydralazine 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