What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're about to start Abacavir treatment for HIV and want to know your risk of a serious allergic reaction before you begin. Some people carry a genetic marker that makes their body react badly to this medication, and this test tells you if you're one of them. Knowing this ahead of time helps you and your treatment plan avoid a dangerous reaction.

What's included in this test?

This test looks specifically for the HLA-B*5701 gene variant, a genetic marker your body is either born with or without. It's a single, targeted result rather than a panel, designed to answer one specific safety question about drug hypersensitivity risk.

What happens after I get my results?

Your result will appear in your account showing whether the HLA-B*5701 gene marker was detected, along with a plain-language explanation of what that means. If the marker is found, the next step is avoiding Abacavir-based treatment and discussing alternative options for HIV therapy. This is a one-time genetic result, so it won't change over time and doesn't need retesting. You can download the full lab report from your account at any time and keep it on file for future reference.

How can I naturally support a healthy immune response?

While this test result itself can't be changed by lifestyle since it's genetic, keeping your immune system strong helps overall treatment success. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and avoiding smoking all support your body's ability to handle medications well. Staying hydrated and maintaining regular physical activity also help your body process treatments more smoothly.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll receive a notification as soon as your results are posted to your account, so you can review them right away.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone who has been advised to start Abacavir as part of an HIV treatment plan should consider this test before beginning the medication. It's especially important for people who haven't been previously screened for this genetic marker, since a reaction can be severe. Testing ahead of time is a simple way to reduce risk before starting a new medication.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

If you're preparing to start Abacavir and haven't yet been screened, that alone is reason to get tested — you don't need symptoms first since this is a preventive screening. However, if you've already started Abacavir and are experiencing fever, rash, nausea, fatigue, or shortness of breath, these could be signs of a hypersensitivity reaction and need urgent attention. Seek medical care right away if you notice these symptoms while on Abacavir.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means you carry the HLA-B*5701 gene marker and have a significantly higher chance of a severe allergic reaction to Abacavir. This doesn't mean anything is wrong with your health overall — it simply means this specific medication isn't a safe fit for you. Alternative HIV treatment options that don't carry this same risk are typically available.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means you don't carry the HLA-B*5701 marker, so your genetic risk of an Abacavir hypersensitivity reaction is very low. This is reassuring news and generally means Abacavir can be considered a safer option for your treatment plan. Even with a negative result, it's still smart to watch for any unusual symptoms when starting a new medication.

How often should I retest?

Since HLA-B*5701 status is a genetic trait, it doesn't change over your lifetime, so you only need to take this test once. There's no need to repeat it before future courses of Abacavir or for routine monitoring. Keep a copy of your result on hand any time this medication comes up in your treatment discussions.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

HLA-B*5701 Typing - Abacavir Allergy Risk Test

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]