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Plasma norepinephrine concentration (mass concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of norepinephrine, a key chemical in your body that helps regulate heart rate, blood pressure, and responses to stress.

Quick summary

["Norepinephrine helps control your body’s fight-or-flight response and blood vessel function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1604-8
Short code
Norepineph 2h p 300 ug CLN PO Plas-mCnc
Synonyms
Norepineph 2h p 300 ug CLN PO Plas-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
plasma
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
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 doctor may order this test to check for conditions affecting your nervous system, such as low blood pressure (hypotension), certain heart problems, or nerve disorders. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like shock, severe stress reactions, or certain cancers that produce extra norepinephrine.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. The process is quick and usually painless. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare provider will collect a blood sample from a vein. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure norepinephrine levels.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results will be compared to standard reference ranges for this test. High levels may suggest conditions like pheochromocytoma (a tumor affecting hormone production), severe stress, or certain infections. Low levels might indicate problems with nerve function, heart issues, or medications that affect norepinephrine.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Norepinephrine (Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What Does This Test Tell Us About My Health?
High norepinephrine levels can signal overactive nerve signals, tumors producing hormones, or severe stress responses. Low levels may point to nerve damage, heart problems, or certain medications that reduce this chemical. Your doctor will use these results along with other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition and symptoms. It may be done once or repeated over time if you have an ongoing issue like a suspected tumor or nerve disorder.
What Are Common Causes of High or Low Norepinephrine Levels?
High levels: Severe stress, pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor), certain infections, or medications that increase adrenaline-like effects. Low levels: Nerve damage, heart problems, medications affecting norepinephrine, or conditions like shock.
  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