What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're taking primidone or phenobarbital for seizures or another condition and need to make sure your dose is in a safe, effective range. It helps you and your care team understand if the medication level in your blood is too low to work, too high and risking side effects, or right where it should be. Many people use this test as a routine check while on long-term therapy.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the normal range for each drug level clearly explained. If your levels are outside the expected range, simple next steps might include adjusting timing of your dose, staying consistent with when you take your medication, or repeating the test on a schedule that matches your treatment plan. You can download a standard lab report directly from your account at any time. Over time, you can also use the trends feature to see how your levels change between tests.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone currently taking primidone or phenobarbital for seizure control or other approved uses should consider this test, especially if it's been a while since your last check. It's also useful if you've recently changed your dose, added a new medication, or noticed new symptoms like drowsiness, confusion, or breakthrough seizures. Regular monitoring helps confirm the medication is working as intended.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Signs that your primidone or phenobarbital levels might need checking include increased drowsiness, dizziness, slurred speech, or trouble with coordination, which can point to levels that are too high. On the other hand, breakthrough seizures or a return of symptoms the medication was meant to control can mean your levels are too low. If you notice either pattern, testing can help clarify what's going on.

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 once your results are posted to your account. From there, you can view the details, download your report, and track the values over time.

What is primidone and why does it matter?

Primidone is a medication used to help control seizures, and part of it converts into phenobarbital in your body, so both are often measured together. Keeping these levels in a healthy range matters because too little may not control symptoms, while too much can cause unwanted side effects like excessive sleepiness or balance problems. Testing gives you a clear picture of how your body is processing the medication.

What does high phenobarbital or primidone mean?

A high result means there's more of the drug in your bloodstream than is typically considered safe, which can raise the risk of side effects such as heavy drowsiness, slowed breathing, or confusion. This can happen if the dose is too high for your body, if you're taking it more often than prescribed, or if another medication is affecting how it's broken down. If you have severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or extreme confusion, seek medical care right away.

What does low phenobarbital or primidone mean?

A low result suggests the medication level isn't high enough to effectively control the condition it's treating, which could mean seizures or symptoms aren't well managed. This can happen if doses are missed, taken inconsistently, or if the dose prescribed needs adjusting. Sticking to a consistent dosing schedule and retesting can help confirm whether an adjustment is needed.

How often should I retest?

Retesting frequency depends on your individual treatment plan, but many people on stable, long-term therapy retest every few months to confirm levels stay in range. If you've recently started the medication, changed your dose, or added new medications, more frequent testing may be helpful. Using the trends feature in your account can help you and your care team decide on the right retesting schedule.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your results come back outside the normal range, start by reviewing your dosing schedule to make sure you're taking the medication consistently and at the same times each day. Avoid making any changes to your dose on your own, and instead use the report to guide a conversation about next steps. Retesting after any adjustment can confirm whether your levels have moved into a healthier range.

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.

Primidone & Phenobarbital Test - Medication Levels

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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