Salicylate
Clinical Biochemistry
Background Information
- Salicylate containing drugs (such as aspirin) are occasionally used for a number of indications including analgesia and to reduce inflammation.
- Measurement is indicated in cases of known, or suspected, overdose.
- Clinicians should access TOXBASE, the database of the National Poisons Information Service (NPIS), or contact the helpline for medical professionals (telephone 0344 892 0111) for advice on risk assessment and management.
- The severity of poisoning cannot be assessed from in vivo salicylate concentrations alone and clinical and biochemical features should also be taken into account.
Patient Preparation
No specific patient preparation is required.
Sample Requirements
For adults, blood taken into a 5mL gold top gel tube (or rust top for the Acute Unit)
For children, blood taken into a 3.5mL rust top gel tube
For neonates, blood taken into a 0.8mL minicollect lithium heparin tube
Storage/Transport
Send at ambient temperature to the laboratory.
Required Information
Relevant clinical details including time and nature of suspected overdose.
Turnaround Times
The assay is run throughout the day and night.
The in-lab turnaround time is less than 24 hours.
The test can be ordered as an urgent request with results available within 1 hour.
Therapeutic ranges and interpretation of results
- Results are reported in mg/L.
- Please refer to TOXBASE for information on risk assessment and management.
Further Information
To learn more about salicylate visit Lab Tests Online
Page last updated: 01/07/2026 | Page last reviewed: 01/07/2026