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Cortisol with 3-hour triple bolus (serum/plasma) measurement by chemiluminescent immunoassay

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures cortisol levels at three different times to assess how your body responds to stress. It helps evaluate adrenal function and diagnose conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.

Quick summary

["This test helps doctors check if your adrenal glands are working properly under stress."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40315-4
Short code
Cortis 1.5h p Triple Bolus SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Cortis 1.5h p Triple Bolus SerPl-sCnc
Category
hormone
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of hormonal imbalances, such as unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or high blood pressure. It’s also used in diagnosing conditions like Cushing’s syndrome (too much cortisol) or Addison’s disease (too little cortisol).

How the Test Works

You’ll have blood drawn at three different times—typically before a stress trigger (like an ACTH injection), immediately after, and 3 hours later. The blood is tested for cortisol levels to see how your body reacts.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could affect cortisol levels. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Results help determine if your adrenal glands are functioning normally. Abnormal levels may lead to further testing or treatment adjustments. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Cortisol Triple-Bolus Test

Short name

Cortisol triple-bolus test

Frequently asked questions

What does cortisol do in my body?
Cortisol is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands that helps regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress reactions. High or low levels can indicate health issues like hormonal imbalances, infections, or chronic stress.
How does this test differ from a single cortisol test?
A single cortisol test measures baseline levels, while this triple-bolus test evaluates how cortisol changes over time in response to a stressor, providing a clearer picture of adrenal function.
Can diet or stress affect my cortisol levels?
Yes, diet (e.g., caffeine, alcohol), stress, and certain medications can influence cortisol. Your doctor may ask you to avoid these factors before testing for more accurate results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy