Lamotrigine Substance Concentration in Serum
This test measures the amount of lamotrigine, a medication used to treat certain types of seizures and mood disorders, in your blood serum. It helps doctors monitor your drug levels to ensure they are within the safe and effective range.
["This test helps your doctor adjust your lamotrigine dose for better control of seizures or mood symptoms."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60312-6
- Short code
- lamoTRIgine Spec-sCnc
- Synonyms
- lamoTRIgine Spec-sCnc
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking lamotrigine to manage epilepsy, bipolar disorder, or other conditions. Regular monitoring helps prevent side effects, such as rash or dizziness, and ensures the medication works properly.
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 a blood sample. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re nervous, let your provider know.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of lamotrigine in your blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, lower-than-expected levels may mean your dose isn’t working, and higher levels could signal toxicity. Your doctor will interpret these results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Possible Side Effects or Considerations
Lamotrigine is generally well-tolerated, but very high levels can cause serious side effects like dizziness, nausea, or rare but serious reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a severe rash). If you experience unusual symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Monitoring lamotrigine levels is critical because the drug’s effectiveness and safety depend on maintaining specific blood concentrations. Too little may reduce seizure control or mood stabilization, while too much can lead to adverse reactions. This test helps optimize your treatment plan.
Short name
Lamotrigine Level
Frequently asked questions
When should I get this test?
What if my results are out of range?
Does diet or other medications affect 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