Levofloxacin Concentration in Serum or Plasma (Quantitative)
This test measures the amount of the antibiotic levofloxacin in your blood or plasma. It helps doctors check if your medication levels are within the safe and effective range.
["This test ensures your antibiotic dose is properly monitored for optimal treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48173-9
- Short code
- levoFLOXacin Islt Slgr Mcbct AB 1.5
- Synonyms
- levoFLOXacin Islt Slgr Mcbct AB 1.5
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking levofloxacin (a fluoroquinolone antibiotic) to treat infections like bacterial pneumonia, urinary tract infections, or skin/soft tissue infections. It helps confirm whether your body is absorbing the drug correctly and whether it’s working as intended.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using a lab method (likely immunoassay or chromatography) to measure the exact amount of levofloxacin present in your blood or plasma.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any other medications you’re taking, as they may affect the test results or your treatment. Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 2 hours before the blood draw if instructed.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll lie down on a table while a healthcare provider inserts a needle into your arm to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s quick and painless.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High levels of levofloxacin may indicate poor absorption, drug resistance, or potential toxicity (e.g., nerve or tendon damage). Low levels could mean the medication isn’t working effectively, requiring dose adjustments. Regular monitoring helps prevent side effects and ensures the infection is fully treated.
Short name
Levofloxacin Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a low or high levofloxacin level mean?
Can I drink water before the 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