Valproate, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration
A blood test that measures the amount of valproate, a medicine used to treat seizures, mood disorders, and migraine.
["This test helps determine whether your valproate dose is appropriate and whether you may be experiencing side effects or inadequate seizure control."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 4086-5
- Short code
- Valproate SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Valproate SerPl-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?
A valproate blood test measures the concentration of valproate, also called valproic acid, in your blood. Your clinician may order it to guide dosing or check for possible medication toxicity.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be used to assess seizure control, especially when seizures continue or side effects occur. It can also help evaluate whether another medicine is affecting valproate levels or whether medication adherence is appropriate.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected from a vein and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The result is usually interpreted together with your symptoms, dose, other medicines, and kidney or liver function.
How do I prepare for the test?
Take valproate exactly as prescribed and have the blood drawn at the time your clinician requests, often near a dose. Fasting is usually not required, but tell the laboratory and your clinician about all medicines and supplements you use. Do not stop valproate suddenly without medical advice.
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 low valproate level may contribute to breakthrough seizures or other symptoms of inadequate treatment, although missed doses or drug interactions can also cause this. A high level may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, tremor, drowsiness, confusion, or liver injury. Results should be interpreted by a clinician because timing after a dose and individual patient factors can affect the concentration.
Short name
Valproate level
Frequently asked questions
Is fasting required for a valproate blood test?
Why did my clinician order a valproate level?
Can another medicine change my valproate level?
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