Imipenem Concentration in Body Fluids (Qualitative or Quantitative)
This test measures the presence or amount of imipenem, a medication used to treat serious bacterial infections, in your body fluids. It helps doctors determine if the drug is working properly and at the right level in your system.
["This test helps ensure your antibiotic treatment is effective and avoids potential side effects from too much or too little medication."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25221-3
- Short code
- Imipenem Islt Slgr Mcbct AB 10.0
- Synonyms
- Imipenem Islt Slgr Mcbct AB 10.0
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- method-for-slow-growing-mycobacteria-antibiotic-concentration-at-ug-ml
- 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 imipenem to treat infections like kidney, urinary tract, or bloodstream infections. It’s especially useful when monitoring how your body is responding to the medication, particularly in cases of kidney problems or when the infection is resistant to other antibiotics.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before a blood draw, but this depends on your doctor’s instructions. If you’re tested for imipenem in urine, you might be instructed to collect a sample at home or in the lab.
How the Test Is Done
The test can involve drawing blood, collecting urine, or taking a sample from other body fluids like cerebrospinal fluid (if needed). The sample is then analyzed to detect imipenem using methods like immunoassay or chromatography to measure its concentration.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically qualitative (positive/negative) or quantitative (exact amount). A positive result confirms the presence of imipenem in your fluids, while a quantitative result shows how much is present. Your doctor will interpret these results in the context of your treatment plan.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High levels of imipenem may indicate the drug is working well to fight infection or that you’re at risk of side effects like kidney damage. Low levels could mean the infection isn’t responding, or the drug isn’t reaching your body where it’s needed. Regular monitoring helps balance effectiveness and safety.
Short name
Imipenem Level Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What are the possible side effects of imipenem?
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