Homocysteine
Homocysteine explained
Homocysteine is an amino acid measured to evaluate B12/folate/B6 status and cardiovascular risk context.
Varies by laboratory (LDT/CLIA; not FDA‑approved as a drug)Homocysteine helps treat
• B‑vitamin status assessment
• Cardiovascular risk context
• Thrombotic risk evaluation (select cases)
additional medications
• Related clinical evaluation and history
• Repeat testing to confirm abnormal results
• Additional targeted labs as recommended
medication risks
• False positives/negatives leading to unnecessary anxiety or missed diagnoses
• Privacy and insurance implications depending on results
• Pre‑analytical variables (fasting, meds) can affect accuracy
side effects
• Bruising or soreness at draw site
• Lightheadedness or fainting (rare)
• Infection at puncture site (very rare)
FAQs
Q: Fasting?A: Often recommended; follow lab guidance.
Q: What raises it?
A: B‑vitamin deficiencies, kidney disease, hypothyroidism, some meds.
Q: Is it diagnostic?
A: Interpreted with other labs and history.
Q: How to lower?
A: Address underlying causes and diet/lifestyle per clinician.
Q: Insurance?
A: Varies by indication.
