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Milrinone, Immunoassay, Serum or Plasma

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

This test measures the amount of milrinone, a medication used to support heart function, in a blood sample of serum or plasma. It helps healthcare providers understand drug levels and guide dosing.

Quick summary

["A milrinone level shows how much of this heart-support medication is present in the blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73266-9
Short code
Milrinone ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
Milrinone ind plt IgG 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

What Is Milrinone?

Milrinone is a prescription medicine given to improve the heart's pumping strength and relax blood vessels. It is typically used in hospital settings for people with certain heart conditions.

Why Measure Milrinone?

Measuring milrinone in the blood helps providers check whether drug levels are in a suitable range. This can be useful when adjusting treatment, especially if the patient's response or kidney function changes.

How the Test Is Done

The test uses a blood sample, usually collected from a vein. The sample is processed to serum or plasma and analyzed with an immunoassay, a method that uses antibodies to detect and measure specific substances.

What the Results Mean

The result indicates the concentration of milrinone in the blood. Providers interpret it alongside the patient's condition, dose, timing of the last dose, and other clinical findings. A milrinone level alone does not diagnose a condition.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Milrinone levels are used to support safe and effective use of this medication. Because milrinone is typically given in closely monitored settings, blood levels may be checked to help individualize therapy and avoid effects from levels that are too high or too low.

Short name

Milrinone Level

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose heart disease?
No. It measures the level of milrinone medication in the blood. Heart conditions are diagnosed using multiple factors, including symptoms, exams, and other tests.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting requirements depend on the provider's instructions and the timing of your milrinone dose. Follow the directions given by your healthcare team.
Can I adjust my medication based on this result?
No. Never change your medication without talking to your healthcare provider. Milrinone dosing is complex and must be managed by a clinician.
  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