Sulfasalazine Metabolite Concentration in Serum/Plasma (24-Hour Total)
This test measures the total amount of sulfasalazine’s active metabolites in your blood over a 24-hour period. It helps monitor how well your body is processing this medication, which is often used to treat conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.
["This test helps doctors check if your medication is working properly and adjust doses as needed."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73138-0
- Short code
- sulfaSALAzine ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- sulfaSALAzine 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 This Test Matters
Sulfasalazine is a medication that combines two active ingredients (sulfapyridine and 5-aminosalicylic acid) to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. However, it’s broken down in the body into several metabolites, including sulfapyridine and its active forms. Measuring these metabolites helps ensure you’re receiving the right dose and avoiding potential side effects.
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 if your doctor specifies it. Bring a list of all medications and supplements you’re taking, as some may affect results.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your blood (either serum or plasma) is collected and analyzed using a sensitive laboratory technique to measure the combined levels of sulfasalazine’s active metabolites over a full day’s cycle.
What the Results Mean
Results help your healthcare provider determine if your medication levels are within the optimal range for managing symptoms while minimizing risks. Abnormally low or high levels may require dose adjustments or alternative treatments.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated levels of sulfasalazine metabolites may indicate poor drug metabolism, which could lead to increased side effects like nausea, rash, or liver concerns. Low levels might suggest the medication isn’t providing enough relief, prompting a review of your treatment plan. Regular monitoring is especially important for patients with kidney or liver issues.
Short name
Sulfasalazine Metabolite Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes variations in my sulfasalazine metabolite levels?
Do I need to avoid certain foods or activities before this test?
How often will I need this test?
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