What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're taking phenytoin (an anti-seizure medication) and need to make sure your dose is working correctly. It helps check whether the amount of medication in your blood is high enough to control seizures but not so high that it causes side effects. It's also useful if you've had a recent dose change or are experiencing symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or unsteady walking that could signal your level is off.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the normal therapeutic range clearly explained, so you can see exactly where your phenytoin level falls. If your level is within range, no action may be needed until your next scheduled check; if it's outside the range, simple next steps like adjusting timing of your dose or retesting sooner may be suggested, and you should seek medical care right away if you notice severe symptoms like confusion, slurred speech, or a seizure. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and use the trends feature to track your phenytoin levels over multiple tests.

What is phenytoin and why does it matter?

Phenytoin is a medication that calms overactive electrical activity in the brain, which is why it's used to prevent seizures. Getting the dose right matters a lot because too little won't control seizures, while too much can cause side effects like drowsiness, blurred vision, or trouble coordinating movement. Regular blood level checks help find that sweet spot where the medication works well without causing problems.

How can I naturally support healthy seizure control?

While phenytoin dosing should never be changed without guidance, you can support overall seizure management with good habits like consistent sleep, regular meals, and limiting alcohol, since poor sleep and irregular eating can lower your seizure threshold. Staying well hydrated and managing stress through relaxation techniques may also help some people feel more stable day to day. Keeping a symptom and medication log can make it easier to spot patterns tied to your levels.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your blood draw. Once processing is complete, they'll be posted directly to your online account where you can view and download them.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone currently prescribed phenytoin for seizure control or as a preventive measure after neurosurgery should consider this test. It's especially useful if you've recently started the medication, changed your dose, added a new medication that could interact with phenytoin, or are noticing new symptoms. Routine monitoring is also a good idea even if you feel fine, since phenytoin levels can drift over time.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Signs that your phenytoin level might be too low include having a seizure or feeling like your seizure control has gotten worse. Signs your level might be too high include drowsiness, blurred or double vision, unsteady walking, tremors, or confusion. If you notice any of these changes, checking your level can help explain what's going on.

What does a high phenytoin level mean?

A high level means there's more medication in your blood than your body needs, which raises the risk of side effects like drowsiness, poor coordination, blurred vision, or confusion. This can happen if the dose is too high, if you've taken doses too close together, or if another medication is interacting with phenytoin. If your level is very high and you have serious symptoms, seek medical care right away.

What does a low phenytoin level mean?

A low level means there may not be enough medication in your system to fully control seizures. This can happen if a dose is missed, taken inconsistently, or if your body is processing the medication faster than expected. A low result paired with breakthrough seizures is a signal that timing or dosing may need a closer look.

How often should I retest my phenytoin level?

Many people on stable doses retest every few months, but more frequent checks are common after starting the medication, changing the dose, or adding a new drug that could interact with phenytoin. Your testing frequency may also increase temporarily if you experience new symptoms. Using the trends feature to track results over time can help you and your care routine spot patterns early.

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.

Phenytoin Level Test - Anti-Seizure Med Monitoring

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

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