seizure medicine levels in blood test
test overview
a medicine blood level test measures how much of your medicine is in your blood. your doctor checks it to make sure that you are taking a safe and effective dose. this testing is also called therapeutic drug monitoring.
why it is done
seizure medicines are usually monitored because:
- at a low blood level, they don't control seizures as well as they should.
- at a high blood level, they may cause problems.
your doctor may use your test results to adjust your dose.
how to prepare
depending on which medicine you take, your doctor may schedule your test at a certain time of day. for example, your test may be done right before you take a dose of medicine.
how it is done
a health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
watch
how it feels
when a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
risks
there is very little chance of having a problem from this test. when a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
results
a medicine blood level test measures how much of your medicine is in your blood. your doctor checks it to make sure that you're taking a safe and effective dose. this testing is also called therapeutic drug monitoring.
the medicine blood level is just a guide. your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors to help decide whether you are taking the right amount of medicine.
credits
current as of: may 13, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
current as of: may 13, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
