Skip to content

Serum Free Amino Acid Profile (or Free Amino Acids in Serum)

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

This test measures the levels of individual amino acids in your blood serum, which are the building blocks of proteins. It helps assess metabolic function, nutritional status, or potential imbalances.

Quick summary

["Understanding your amino acid levels can help identify health concerns or guide treatment for conditions like metabolic disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47745-5
Short code
Serine SFr Amn
Synonyms
Serine SFr Amn
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or unexplained weight changes. It could also be used to monitor conditions like kidney disease, liver disorders, or certain genetic metabolic syndromes. Rarely, it may be checked in cases of suspected malnutrition or after trauma.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw. Avoid consuming large amounts of protein-rich foods or supplements on the day of testing. Hydration is important, but drink water unless instructed otherwise.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis using specialized techniques to measure each amino acid concentration.

What the Results Mean

Results show the levels of multiple amino acids, though individual reference ranges vary by lab. Elevated or low levels of specific amino acids may indicate underlying health issues that need further evaluation by your doctor.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Free Amino Acids

Frequently asked questions

What does a free amino acid test measure?
This test measures the concentration of individual amino acids (the basic units that make up proteins) in your blood serum. It provides a detailed profile of these compounds, which can help identify metabolic imbalances or health conditions.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during a follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
You may eat a normal diet, but avoid consuming large amounts of protein-rich foods or supplements on the day of testing. Some labs may recommend fasting for a few hours before the blood draw.
  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