Skip to content

Thiopental Serum Concentration (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of thiopental, a short-acting barbiturate anesthetic, in your serum. It may be used to monitor drug levels in certain clinical situations.

Quick summary

["This test helps track thiopental levels for safety during anesthesia or sedation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
32117-4
Short code
Thiopental SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Thiopental SerPl-sCnc
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

What Is This Test For?

Thiopental is sometimes used in medical settings to induce anesthesia or sedation, particularly in critical care or during surgical procedures. Measuring its concentration helps healthcare providers ensure appropriate dosing and avoid overdose or underdosing.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare team may order this test if you’ve received thiopental treatment, such as during surgery, intensive care, or other procedures requiring controlled sedation. It helps assess how well your body is processing the drug and whether adjustments are needed.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion is separated and sent to the lab for testing. You may feel a brief pinch when the needle is inserted.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are not typically provided as a single numeric range since thiopental is administered under direct medical supervision. Instead, your healthcare provider will interpret the level in relation to your clinical condition and treatment plan.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Thiopental levels are critical for managing anesthesia or sedation safely. Too little may mean inadequate sedation, while too much can lead to respiratory depression or overdose. Continuous monitoring helps prevent complications.

Short name

Thiopental Level

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Reasons for This Test?
This test is usually performed during or shortly after thiopental administration, often in patients under anesthesia or in critical care settings like ICUs.
Will I Feel Pain or Discomfort?
You may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but most people tolerate blood draws with minimal pain. Your provider can offer numbing cream if needed.
Results are typically available within 1–2 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they are ready to discuss them.
No special preparation is needed for this test. However, follow any general fasting instructions your provider may give for other blood tests.
  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