What should I know before I have a brain natriuretic peptide test?

The BNP level may get lower if treatment for heart failure is working. But the BNP level may stay above the normal BNP level even when a heart failure treatment is working well. Your doctor will use your physical exam and other tests, along with your BNP level, to make sure your treatment is working. Other tests may help predict your risk for heart problems, especially if they are combined with total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol tests.