Valproate (Valproic Acid), Fluid — Mass Concentration
A laboratory test measuring the amount of valproate, also called valproic acid, in a fluid specimen. The type of fluid depends on the test order.
["This test measures valproate in the specified fluid and may help assess medication exposure when results are interpreted with the clinical situation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 29229-2
- Short code
- Valproate Fld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Valproate Fld-mCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Critical range
- — – 151 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- 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?
This test measures the concentration of valproate, the active form of valproic acid, in a fluid specimen. The result is reported as a mass concentration.
Why might I need this test?
A valproate level may be ordered to help determine whether a dose is producing an appropriate amount of medication or whether too much medication is present. The reason for testing and the meaning of the result depend on the fluid sampled and the clinical situation.
How is the test performed?
A sample of the specified fluid is collected and analyzed in the laboratory to measure its valproate concentration. The laboratory may use a laboratory-based method such as chromatography or immunoassay.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the specific collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the laboratory. Do not change or skip valproate doses unless your clinician directs you to do so, because the timing of the sample can affect the result.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A higher-than-expected valproate concentration may suggest excessive exposure, medication toxicity, or an interaction with other medicines. A lower-than-expected concentration may suggest inadequate exposure, but interpretation varies by the type of fluid, dosing schedule, timing of collection, and individual clinical factors.
Short name
Valproate level
Frequently asked questions
Does this test measure valproic acid or valproate?
What type of fluid is tested?
Can I take or skip my medication 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy