Salicylates Level
Reviewed
Also called: Acetylsalicylic Acid Level, Aspirin Level
This test measures the amount of salicylates (such as aspirin) in your blood. It is used to help diagnose aspirin poisoning or to monitor people taking prescription-strength aspirin for conditions like arthritis.
Specimen: Blood (venous)
Why this test may be ordered
- To help diagnose acute or gradual aspirin or other salicylate poisoning.
- To monitor people taking prescription-strength aspirin for arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
Preparation and collection
You may need to stop taking aspirin or other salicylate for at least four hours before the test. Your provider will let you know if there are any other special instructions to follow.
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.
There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
Understanding results
Your healthcare provider will interpret your salicylate level based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. The following patterns are general guidelines.
- Therapeutic Level: Your salicylate level is within the expected range for treatment. Continue taking your medication as prescribed and follow up with your healthcare provider as recommended. Limitation: The source does not specify a numeric therapeutic range; your provider will determine the appropriate range for your condition. Next step: Routine
- High Level (Possible Toxicity): Your salicylate level is above the therapeutic range. This may indicate toxicity and requires immediate medical attention. Limitation: The source does not specify a numeric threshold for toxicity; your provider will assess based on your level and symptoms. Next step: Seek immediate medical attention. If you have symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, ringing in the ears, confusion, or hallucinations, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
- The test alone cannot diagnose poisoning; your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results.
- No reference interval or units are provided in the source; interpretation should be done by a healthcare professional.
What to do next
If you have questions about your results, talk to your provider. Do not stop or start taking aspirin without consulting your provider.
- What is my salicylate level and what does it mean for my health?
- Do I need to adjust my medication or seek emergency care?
- What symptoms should I watch for that might indicate poisoning?