Valproate, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration
A blood test that measures the amount of valproate in serum or plasma. It is mainly used to monitor treatment and help identify low levels or possible toxicity.
["This test shows how much valproate is in your blood, helping your clinician adjust treatment and recognize possible toxicity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14946-8
- Short code
- Valproate SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Valproate SerPl-sCnc
- 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, also called valproic acid, in a blood sample. Valproate is a medicine used for certain types of seizures and other conditions, including bipolar disorder.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to check whether your valproate dose is appropriate, especially when starting treatment, changing the dose, or taking other medicines. It can also help investigate side effects, worsening seizures, or symptoms that could be related to excess valproate.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected by a healthcare professional, usually from a vein. The laboratory analyzes the serum or plasma portion of the sample to determine the valproate concentration.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's instructions about when to take valproate and when the blood sample will be collected, because the time since your last dose can affect the result. Do not stop or change your medication without medical advice. Tell the laboratory about all medicines and supplements you take.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Valproate Level
Frequently asked questions
What does the valproate level test measure?
Why can my valproate level change from one blood test to another?
What symptoms can occur if the valproate level is too high?
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