Valproic Acid Valproate Test
Short Name: Valproic Acid (Valproate)
Also known as: Valproate Test, VPA Level, Depakote Level, Valproic Acid Level
Valproic Acid Valproate Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹936. Uses Chemiluminescent Immunoassay on Serum samples. Results in Reports are typically delivered on the same day as sample collection. You will receive a secure link via email/WhatsApp and can also view them on our online portal.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of this test is to measure the amount of valproate in the blood and assist in monitoring therapy, assessing patient compliance, evaluating potential toxicity, and guiding dose adjustments. It is used to ensure that valproate levels remain within the therapeutic range to maximize efficacy while minimizing side effects.
- Test Code
- 3718
- ICD Code
- R79.8
- Price
- ₹936
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Reports are typically delivered on the same day as sample collection. You will receive a secure link via email/WhatsApp and can also view them on our online portal.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Sample Collection
Inform your doctor about all medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements you are taking. The blood sample is ideally drawn just before your next dose (trough level) at steady state. No fasting is required.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle. The procedure takes only a few minutes and may cause minor discomfort, bruising, or brief dizziness.
Report Delivery
You can resume normal activities immediately. If you experience prolonged bleeding, excessive pain, or signs of infection at the puncture site, contact your healthcare provider.
Timeline: Reports are typically delivered on the same day as sample collection. You will receive a secure link via email/WhatsApp and can also view them on our online portal.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of this test is to measure the amount of valproate in the blood and assist in monitoring therapy, assessing patient compliance, evaluating potential toxicity, and guiding dose adjustments. It is used to ensure that valproate levels remain within the therapeutic range to maximize efficacy while minimizing side effects.
How to Prepare
- Recommended specimen: just before the next dose is due at steady state.
- Use a Red Top (No Additive) tube; do not use SST gel barrier tubes.
- Ship refrigerated or frozen.
- Label the sample correctly with patient identification.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"Valproic acid levels should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical response and liver function. A trough level just before the next dose is most informative for dose adjustments."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Use of serum separator gel tube (SST)
- Lipemic, icteric, or grossly hemolyzed specimens
- Improperly labeled samples
- Sample received without cold chain if shipped refrigerated/frozen
Understanding Your Results
Subtherapeutic: May indicate poor compliance, inadequate dosing, or drug interactions. Consider dose adjustment after clinical evaluation.
Level: Below 50 mcg/mL
Therapeutic: Considered effective for most patients. Clinical response and tolerability should guide further monitoring.
Level: 50 - 100 mcg/mL
Supratherapeutic/toxic: Increased risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, tremors, dizziness, sedation, and hepatotoxicity. Immediate dose reduction or discontinuation may be required.
Level: Above 100 mcg/mL
Consult your physician if your valproate level is outside the therapeutic range, if you experience symptoms of toxicity (confusion, acute nausea, tremor, abnormal eye movements), or if you have concerns about your epilepsy or mood disorder management.
Limitations
- ⚠A single trough measurement may not fully reflect average daily exposure, but it is the standard for monitoring
- ⚠Valproate levels must be interpreted with clinical presentation and liver function, as toxicity can occur within the therapeutic range in some patients
- ⚠The test does not measure free (unbound) valproate concentration, which may be more clinically relevant in hypoalbuminemia or renal/hepatic impairment
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising at the puncture site
- ●Slight pain or discomfort during blood draw
- ●Rare risk of infection or prolonged bleeding
Interfering Factors
- ●Concurrent use of enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) may lower valproate levels
- ●Enzyme inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, felbamate, erythromycin) may raise valproate levels
- ●Sample collected too soon after an oral dose (peak level) may misrepresent trough exposure
- ●Use of serum separator gel tubes can cause interference and should be avoided
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Valproic Acid/Valproate Test?
Why is this test done?
How much does the Valproic Acid Valproate Test cost at DNA Labs India?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
What is the recommended time for blood collection?
Do I need to fast before the test?
What does a high valproate level indicate?
What does a low valproate level indicate?
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What sample type is required?
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