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Loratadine Concentration in Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of loratadine, a medication used to relieve allergy symptoms, in your blood plasma.

Quick summary

["Understanding your loratadine levels helps ensure the medication is working safely at the right dose."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73296-6
Short code
Loratadine ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
Loratadine 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

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking loratadine and want to check how much of the drug is in your system. It can also be used to monitor for potential side effects or adjust your dose if needed.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is required. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your loratadine levels are within the expected range for your dose. Abnormally high or low levels may indicate issues like poor absorption, drug interactions, or improper dosing.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is often used in clinical settings to verify therapeutic drug monitoring, especially in cases of suspected overdose, drug interactions, or when adjusting doses for patients with kidney or liver problems.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Loratadine Level (Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What could cause abnormal results?
Abnormally high levels might suggest overdose, poor metabolism, or incorrect dosing. Abnormally low levels could indicate insufficient absorption, drug interactions, or improper dosing instructions. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will contact you once they’re ready to review them.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before the test, as it doesn’t require fasting. However, follow any specific instructions your provider gives you for your particular situation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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