ALP - blood test Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found
in all body tissues. Tissues with particularly high amounts of
ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone. A blood test can be
done to measure the level of ALP. See also: ALP isoenzyme test
How the Test is Performed A blood sample is needed. For
information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture How to
Prepare for the Test You should not to eat or drink anything for
6 hours before the test, unless otherwise instructed by your
doctor. Many drugs affect the level of alkaline phosphatase in
the blood. Your health care provider may tell you to stop taking
certain drugs before the test. Never stop taking any medicine
without first talking to your doctor. Drugs that may affect the
ALP level may include: - Birth control pills - Certain diabetes
medicines - Male hormones - Narcotic pain medicines -
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), used for
arthritis and pain) - Tricyclic antidepressants How the Test
Will Feel When the needle is inserted to