Test library
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test
A BNP blood test measures B-type natriuretic peptide, a hormone the heart releases when it is under strain. It supports the evaluation and monitoring of heart failure.
Order BNP Blood Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order BNP Blood Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $198
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The BNP blood test measures B-type natriuretic peptide, a hormone produced by the heart when its chambers are stretched or working under increased pressure. Higher levels can point toward heart failure or other cardiac strain. The test is often used with other findings to help evaluate shortness of breath, and it can also be used to follow a known heart condition over time. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the result.
What this test measures
BNP is released by the heart muscle when the ventricles are stretched, as can happen when the heart does not pump efficiently. The hormone helps the body regulate fluid and blood pressure by promoting sodium and water excretion. Because it rises with cardiac wall stress, measuring it in blood gives clinicians a biochemical clue about how the heart is handling its workload.
The test uses a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in the arm. Laboratories may measure BNP directly or measure NT-proBNP, an inactive fragment produced alongside it. Both are used clinically, and reference ranges differ between the two assays. Results are interpreted with the person's symptoms, examination, and imaging rather than on their own, since many factors influence the level.
BNP testing is commonly ordered when someone arrives with shortness of breath and the cause is unclear, because it can help distinguish a cardiac cause from a lung-related one. It is also used to gauge severity and to monitor people with known heart failure. Levels can be affected by age, kidney function, and other conditions, so the result always belongs in a broader clinical picture.
- B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)
- N-terminal pro-BNP (NT-proBNP)
- Related natriuretic peptides
- Serum creatinine and kidney function markers when paired
- Electrolytes, including sodium and potassium
- Troponin when cardiac injury is also being assessed
Why people order this test
- Evaluate unexplained shortness of breath
- Help distinguish cardiac from lung causes of breathlessness
- Support the diagnosis of heart failure
- Monitor a known heart failure condition over time
- Assess the severity of cardiac strain
- Provide supporting information alongside imaging and examination
How to prepare
No fasting is required for a BNP test. A blood sample is collected from a vein, usually at the arm. Tell the ordering provider about current medications, since some can influence natriuretic peptide levels.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. The report shows the BNP or NT-proBNP level with the laboratory's reference range. An elevated value can suggest cardiac strain, but a qualified healthcare provider interprets it together with symptoms, examination, and other tests.
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test by state
Alabama
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Alabama.
Alaska
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Alaska.
Arizona
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Arizona.
Arkansas
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Arkansas.
California
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across California.
Colorado
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Colorado.
Connecticut
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Connecticut.
Delaware
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Delaware.
Florida
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Florida.
Georgia
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Georgia.
Hawaii
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Hawaii.
Idaho
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Test across Idaho.
Related tests
12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
12 Panel Drug Testing
Compare 12 Panel Drug Testing options and order online.
7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does BNP measure?
It measures a hormone the heart releases when its chambers are stretched or under pressure. Higher levels can accompany heart failure or other cardiac strain.
What is the difference between BNP and NT-proBNP?
They are related markers produced together. Laboratories may measure either one, and each has its own reference range and interpretation.
Do I need to fast before the test?
No. Fasting is not required for a BNP blood test unless it is combined with another test that calls for it.
Can a high BNP confirm heart failure?
No single test confirms heart failure. An elevated level adds supporting information that a healthcare provider evaluates with your symptoms and other findings.
Can other conditions raise BNP?
Yes. Age, kidney function, and certain other conditions can influence the level, so results are always interpreted in context.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
Reviewed by the LabOrdering Editorial Team
Every page on this site is reviewed for clarity, sourcing, and accuracy. We update our library as testing options, collection networks, and accreditation standards change.