Cortisol (Serum) with Triple Bolus Stimulation Test (Serum)
This test measures your cortisol levels before, during, and after a specific medication challenge to evaluate how your body responds to stress hormones.
["Assesses adrenal gland function and cortisol production under stress conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40317-0
- Short code
- Cortis 3h p Triple Bolus SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis 3h 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 order this test if they suspect conditions like adrenal insufficiency (e.g., Addison’s disease), Cushing’s syndrome, or other hormonal imbalances that affect cortisol production. It helps determine whether your adrenal glands are functioning normally or if they need medical support.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll receive three doses of a synthetic cortisol-like medication (dexamethasone) at specific times. Blood samples will be taken before each dose and at intervals afterward to measure cortisol levels. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and certain medications that could affect results for 24 hours before testing.
During the Test Process
Blood samples are drawn from a vein in your arm at scheduled times. The process is quick and typically causes only mild discomfort. You may experience temporary bruising or soreness at the injection sites.
What the Results Mean
Your results will compare cortisol levels before and after the medication doses. Abnormally low or high responses may indicate specific hormonal disorders that require further medical evaluation.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
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.
Low cortisol levels after stimulation may suggest adrenal insufficiency, while high levels could indicate overproduction of cortisol (Cushing’s syndrome) or other stress-related conditions. This test helps guide treatment plans, such as hormone replacement or management of underlying conditions.
Short name
Cortisol Stimulation Test
Frequently asked questions
What is cortisol, and why is it important?
How long will I need to prepare for this test?
Will I need to stay overnight for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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