Tetracycline Concentration in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the amount of tetracycline, an antibiotic, in your blood. It helps determine if the medication is working properly or if adjustments are needed.
["Check your tetracycline blood levels to ensure proper dosing and avoid potential side effects."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73120-8
- Short code
- Tetracycline ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Tetracycline 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
What Is Tetracycline?
Tetracycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria. However, it can also affect other bacteria in your body, which may lead to side effects like stomach upset or allergic reactions. Long-term use or high doses can harm your liver or kidneys.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking tetracycline to treat or monitor an infection. It helps ensure the correct dose is being administered and checks for potential drug interactions or toxicity.
How Is the Test Done?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure the tetracycline concentration. This process is usually quick and painless.
What Do the Results Mean?
Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., micrograms per milliliter). Your provider will interpret these results in relation to your medical condition and current medication. Too-high or too-low levels may require changes to your treatment plan.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High tetracycline levels may indicate overdose or poor metabolism, which can lead to side effects like nausea, vomiting, or kidney/liver damage. Low levels might mean the medication isn’t working effectively, requiring a dose adjustment. Regular monitoring is important for patients with kidney or liver conditions or those taking other medications that interact with tetracycline.
Short name
Tetracycline Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What should I do if I miss a dose or have side effects?
Can I drink alcohol while taking tetracycline?
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