Kanamycin Concentration (Serum/Plasma) – Quantitative Antibiotic Level
This test measures the amount of the antibiotic kanamycin in your blood or plasma. It helps healthcare providers monitor your response to kanamycin therapy, especially in cases of infection treated with this medication.
["Kanamycin levels help ensure you’re receiving the right dose and avoid potential toxicity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23609-1
- Short code
- Kanamycin Islt SlowMyco
- Synonyms
- Kanamycin Islt SlowMyco
- 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
- CPT
- 86038
- 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 receiving kanamycin, a powerful antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections like meningitis, endocarditis, or certain types of pneumonia. It helps track how well your body is processing the drug and whether it’s effective against your infection.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm, or if testing urine, you might be asked to collect a sample at home. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically expressed in micrograms per milliliter (mcg/mL) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). While exact reference ranges vary by lab, therapeutic levels may fall within a specific range to balance effectiveness and safety. Your doctor will interpret these results in the context of your treatment plan.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
Kanamycin can cause side effects like kidney damage, hearing loss, or allergic reactions. If you experience dizziness, ringing in the ears, nausea, or signs of kidney problems (e.g., changes in urine output), contact your doctor immediately. Avoid mixing this medication with others without consulting your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Kanamycin Level
Frequently asked questions
Why is monitoring kanamycin levels important?
What if my levels are too high or too low?
Can I drink alcohol 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