Monitoring
Labs before a refill: which medicines need them and why
Labs aren't paperwork. They're how a physician knows a medicine is still helping and not quietly causing harm.
Common medicines and their usual labs
| Medicine | Usual labs |
|---|---|
| Lisinopril, losartan | Kidney function, potassium |
| Hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone | Sodium, potassium, kidney function |
| Metformin | A1C, kidney function; sometimes B12 |
| Jardiance, Farxiga | Kidney function; A1C with diabetes |
| Levothyroxine | TSH |
| Atorvastatin, rosuvastatin | Cholesterol (lipid panel) |
| GLP-1 medicines for diabetes | A1C, kidney function |
Your own schedule may differ depending on your health and history.
If your labs are overdue
The physician may provide a shorter supply and ask you to get labs before the next refill, or, if it isn't safe to continue without results, recommend testing first. Bring results from any lab, clinic or hospital; recent is what matters.
Getting labs in Florida
Your primary care clinician, a community health center or a commercial lab can draw them. Seasonal residents can often schedule labs before traveling. Keep a copy of your results, or a photo, to share when you request a refill.
Common questions
How recent do my labs need to be?
For many stable maintenance medicines, results from within about the past year are reasonable. Some situations, like a recent dose change or kidney disease, need more frequent checks.
Can you order my labs?
Ask the physician during your review. Depending on your situation, the physician may recommend where to get labs, or direct you to your regular clinician.
I've never had labs for my blood pressure medicine. Is that a problem?
Many blood pressure medicines should be checked with kidney and potassium tests at least once a year. The physician may still refill it, with a request to get those tests.