Teicoplanin Free Concentration (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the amount of the antibiotic teicoplanin that is not bound to proteins in your blood, helping doctors assess its effectiveness and adjust treatment.
["Your free teicoplanin level helps guide how much of this antibiotic to use safely."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 80968-1
- Short code
- Teicoplanin free SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Teicoplanin free 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 This Test Matters
Teicoplanin is a type of antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections. Since it’s often given to patients with kidney problems, your doctor may want to check how much of it is actually available in your bloodstream to avoid toxicity. Free concentration testing helps ensure the right dose is maintained.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate the free (unbound) portion of teicoplanin from the protein-bound portion. Advanced laboratory techniques, such as immunoassay or nephelometry, measure this free concentration.
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 test if instructed by your healthcare provider. Wear comfortable clothing and bring any medications you’re currently taking.
What to Expect After the Test
You may feel slight discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but this usually goes away quickly. Apply ice if needed. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few hours afterward.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High free teicoplanin levels may indicate toxicity, which can cause kidney damage or other side effects. Low levels might mean the antibiotic isn’t working effectively against your infection. Your doctor will use these results to adjust your treatment plan, especially if you have kidney issues or take other medications that interact with antibiotics.
Short name
Free Teicoplanin Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What should I do if I have kidney problems?
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