Tobramycin Mass Concentration in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the amount of the antibiotic tobramycin in your blood, typically taken to monitor drug levels in people receiving this medication.
["Tobramycin levels help ensure safe and effective dosing for infections treated with this antibiotic."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31094-6
- Short code
- Tobramycin Pk EID SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Tobramycin Pk EID 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
Tobramycin is a powerful antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections, including those caused by Pseudomonas or other resistant bacteria. Your doctor may order this test if you’re receiving tobramycin intravenously or by injection to check if the drug is working properly and at the right concentration in your blood.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm or hand, and a blood sample will be collected. The process usually takes a few minutes. If you’re receiving tobramycin as part of your treatment, your blood sample may be drawn at different times to track your levels over time.
What the Results Mean
Results are used to guide your doctor’s decisions about your treatment. Too low levels might mean the infection isn’t being fully treated, while too high levels could increase the risk of side effects. Your doctor will discuss these results with you in detail and adjust your medication if needed.
Possible Side Effects and Risks
While rare, high tobramycin levels can cause kidney problems or other side effects. Your doctor will carefully monitor your levels to balance effectiveness with safety. Common side effects of tobramycin include nausea, vomiting, or ear ringing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Tobramycin levels are critical for patients receiving this antibiotic, especially those with kidney issues or those receiving long-term treatment. Monitoring helps prevent overuse, which can lead to antibiotic resistance, and ensures the drug remains effective against your infection. Your doctor may order this test periodically or as needed to adjust your treatment plan.
Short name
Tobramycin Level
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
What if my results are outside the expected range?
Can I eat or drink before 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