Epinephrine (serum/plasma concentration)

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, anxiety, or panic attacks that suggest an overactive adrenal gland or stress response. It could also be used to monitor conditions like pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor affecting hormone production) or during certain medical procedures requiring precise hormone levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if your test is part of a larger metabolic or endocrine evaluation. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest afterward, as drawing blood can cause lightheadedness.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to collect blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure usually takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a sensitive immunoassay method.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a reference range for healthy individuals, but exact values can vary by lab. High levels may indicate conditions like pheochromocytoma, adrenal gland tumors, or severe stress reactions. Low levels might suggest adrenal insufficiency or certain medications affecting hormone production.