Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. A homocysteine test measures the amount of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood. A homocysteine blood test is done to: Do not eat or drink anything (other than water) for at least 8 hours before the test. Many medicines may affect the results of this test. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the nonprescription and prescription medicines you take. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results will mean. To help you understand the importance of this test, fill out the medical test information form . The health professional drawing your blood will: The blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. An elastic band is wrapped around your upper arm. It may feel tight. You may feel nothing at all from the needle, or you may feel a quick sting or pinch. There is very little chance of a problem from having a blood sample taken from a vein. A homocysteine test measures the amount of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood. Results are ready in 24 hours. The normal values listed here—called a reference range—are just a guide. These ranges vary from lab to lab, and your lab may have a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should contain the range your lab uses. Also, your doctor will evaluate your results based on your health and other factors. This means that a value that falls outside the normal values listed here may still be normal for you or your lab. Normal: 0.54–2.3 mg/L Many conditions can affect homocysteine levels. Your doctor will discuss any significant abnormal results with you in relation to your symptoms and past health. High values of homocysteine may be caused by: Low values of homocysteine may be caused by some medicines or vitamins such as daily folic acid, vitamin B12, or niacin. Reasons you may not be able to have the test or why the results may not be helpful include: Current as of: May 13, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: May 13, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Homocysteine
Test Overview
Why It Is Done
How To Prepare
How It Is Done
How It Feels
Risks
Results
Normal
High values
Low values
What Affects the Test
Related Information
References
Citations
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: May 13, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardHomocysteine
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.