Streptomycin Levels
This blood test measures streptomycin levels to ensure safe and effective antibiotic treatment. It is used to monitor dosing and reduce the risk of side effects.
Turnaround time
Results available 5 days after arrival in lab. Doctor's report sent the day after results available (if required)
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Streptomycin Levels
What is the Streptomycin Levels Test?
The Streptomycin Levels test measures the concentration of streptomycin in the blood. Streptomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat specific bacterial infections, including tuberculosis and certain resistant infections.
Because streptomycin has a narrow therapeutic range, blood level monitoring is essential to ensure the dose is effective without reaching toxic levels. This test is typically performed as part of therapeutic drug monitoring during active treatment.
Monitoring streptomycin levels helps clinicians balance efficacy with safety, particularly during prolonged or high-dose therapy.
Why do I need a Streptomycin Levels test?
Streptomycin can cause serious side effects if blood levels become too high, particularly affecting hearing and kidney function. Conversely, levels that are too low may reduce treatment effectiveness and contribute to treatment failure.
You may need this test if you:
- Are currently receiving streptomycin treatment
- Are undergoing long-term antibiotic therapy
- Have kidney impairment or fluctuating renal function
- Experience hearing changes, dizziness, or balance issues
- Require dose adjustment based on body weight or age
- Are being monitored for drug safety during infection treatment
Regular monitoring helps ensure the medication remains within a safe and effective range.
Benefits of the test
- Ensures safe antibiotic dosing
Helps maintain streptomycin within its therapeutic range. - Reduces risk of toxicity
Identifies elevated levels before serious side effects occur. - Supports treatment effectiveness
Confirms drug levels are sufficient to combat infection. - Guides dose adjustments
Useful when kidney function changes or symptoms develop. - Essential for long-term therapy
Particularly important during extended treatment courses. - Objective treatment monitoring
Provides measurable data rather than relying on symptoms alone. - Supports high-risk patients
Especially relevant for older adults or those with renal disease. - Improves overall treatment safety
Helps balance efficacy with patient wellbeing.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
- Choose your nearest UK clinic
- Attend your appointment
- A clinician draws a blood sample
- Sample is sent to the laboratory
- Results are issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
- Book a mobile phlebotomist
- Blood sample taken at your home or hotel
- No need to travel to a clinic
- Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
Low levels (sub-therapeutic)
- Streptomycin concentration below effective range
- UK standard: Peak levels typically <20 mg/L
- May reduce treatment effectiveness and require dose review
Normal levels (therapeutic range)
- Streptomycin within the desired treatment window
- UK standard: Peak levels approximately 20–40 mg/L
- Indicates appropriate dosing and effective monitoring
High levels (risk of toxicity)
- Streptomycin concentration above safe range
- UK standard: Peak levels >40 mg/L
- Increased risk of ototoxicity and kidney damage
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.