Salicylates Level
Reviewed
Also called: Acetylsalicylic Acid Level, Aspirin Level
This test measures the amount of salicylates in the blood. Salicylates are a type of drug found in many over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
Specimen: Blood (venous)
Urgent safety information
If you notice symptoms of aspirin poisoning, call 911 or the poison control center, or go to the nearest emergency room.
Emergency numbers on this page are for the United States. Outside the US, call your local emergency number.
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
If you regularly take aspirin or other salicylate, you may need to stop taking it for at least four hours before your 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. 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
If a result or symptoms suggest an emergency, get emergency medical help right away.
To understand the results of a salicylate test, your provider may consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other blood tests.
- Level consistent with treatment (monitoring): The test can show whether you are taking enough to treat your disorder or are taking a harmful amount. Limitation: To understand the results of a salicylate test, your provider may consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other blood tests. Next step: Before you stop or start taking aspirin, be sure to talk with your provider.
- High salicylate level (possible poisoning): If your results show a high level of salicylates, you may need immediate treatment. If levels get too high, it can be fatal. Limitation: The treatment will depend on the amount of overdose. Next step: If you notice symptoms of aspirin poisoning, call 911 or the poison control center, 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. Before you stop or start taking aspirin, be sure to talk with 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?
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.