Skip to content

Serum/plasma mass concentration of desmethylbedaquiline

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

This test measures the amount of a specific active metabolite of bedaquiline in your blood. It helps doctors monitor how your body is processing this medication, especially when used for tuberculosis treatment.

Quick summary

["This test helps ensure your medication is working safely and effectively."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
80648-9
Short code
N-monodesmethyl bedaquiline SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
N-monodesmethyl bedaquiline SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking bedaquiline, a medication used to treat tuberculosis. It helps track levels of its active metabolite to prevent potential side effects or ensure proper dosing. This is particularly important for long-term treatment where drug levels can fluctuate over time.

What Does This Test Measure?

The test measures the mass concentration of desmethylbedaquiline in your blood plasma or serum. This metabolite is formed when your body breaks down bedaquiline, and its levels can indicate how well your liver and kidneys are processing the drug.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed using a specialized mass spectrometry technique to determine the precise concentration of desmethylbedaquiline.

What Do Results Mean?

Results provide a quantitative measure of the metabolite’s concentration, which doctors use to adjust treatment plans. While reference ranges vary by lab and patient factors, abnormal levels may signal either insufficient drug exposure or potential toxicity.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Bedaquiline metabolite level

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor want to check this level?
Your doctor may order this test if you’re on bedaquiline therapy to ensure therapeutic drug levels are maintained. It helps prevent complications like drug resistance or adverse reactions, especially in patients with liver or kidney issues.
How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your treatment plan. Some patients may need monitoring during initial dosing or if they experience changes in kidney/liver function, while others may only need it periodically.
What if my results are outside the expected range?
If results are too high, your doctor may adjust your dose to avoid toxicity. If too low, they might increase your medication or switch to a different treatment approach.
  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