Theophylline Blood Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of theophylline, a medication derived from tea leaves, in your blood. Theophylline is used to treat breathing problems like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
["Your doctor may order this test to check if your medication levels are safe and effective."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4047-7
- Short code
- Theophylline Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Theophylline Bld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 20
- Critical range
- — – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’re taking theophylline to manage breathing issues. They might also order it to monitor your levels regularly, especially if you have certain health conditions or take other medications that could affect how theophylline works in your body.
What Does This Test Tell You?
Theophylline is a medication that can affect how your body works, especially your heart and lungs. Too much or too little can cause problems. This test helps doctors see if your dose is working well for you and if you’re at a safe level.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll likely feel a brief pinch when the needle is inserted, but most people don’t experience much discomfort afterward. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for testing.
Reference range
Therapeutic: 10-20 mcg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Theophylline Level
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor want to check my theophylline level?
How often should I get this test?
What happens if my theophylline level is too high or too low?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy