Mirtazapine concentration in plasma (quantitative)
This test measures the amount of mirtazapine, a prescription antidepressant, in your blood plasma. It helps your healthcare provider assess drug levels to ensure proper dosing and monitor for potential side effects.
["This test helps confirm if your mirtazapine dose is working as intended and whether you may need adjustments."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73260-2
- Short code
- Mirtazapine ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Mirtazapine 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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test if you’re taking mirtazapine to check if your blood levels are within the recommended range. It’s especially useful for patients who haven’t responded well to the medication or are experiencing unusual side effects. Blood levels can vary based on how your body processes the drug, so monitoring helps optimize treatment.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on your healthcare provider’s lab processes. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.
Possible Results and Next Steps
If your mirtazapine levels are too low, your doctor may adjust your dose to improve effectiveness. If levels are too high, they may reduce the dose to avoid side effects like dizziness, weight gain, or increased heart rate. Always follow your doctor’s guidance based on the results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Mirtazapine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used to treat depression and anxiety. Blood levels help determine if the medication is working properly. Low levels may indicate insufficient dosing, while high levels could signal toxicity or improper metabolism. Regular monitoring is particularly important in patients with liver or kidney issues, as these organs play a key role in drug clearance.
Short name
Mirtazapine Level (Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What are the most common side effects of mirtazapine?
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