Cortisol with Triple Bolus Stimulation Test (Serum)
This test measures your cortisol levels before, immediately after, and at specific intervals after a cortisol-boosting medication to check how your body responds to stress.
["Assesses adrenal gland function and cortisol production under stress."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40313-9
- Short code
- Cortis 45M p Triple Bolus SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis 45M 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 adrenal gland issues, such as Cushing’s syndrome (overactive cortisol production) or adrenal insufficiency (underactive cortisol production). It helps determine whether your adrenal glands are working normally when exposed to stress.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll receive a medication (dexamethasone or synthetic cortisol) to temporarily increase cortisol levels. Blood samples will be taken at baseline, immediately after dosing, and at set intervals (e.g., 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours). Avoid caffeine or stress before testing.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm at each scheduled time. The samples are sent to a lab for cortisol measurement using a sensitive immunoassay method.
What the Results Mean
Abnormal results may indicate whether your adrenal glands are producing cortisol appropriately in response to stress. Your doctor will compare your results to expected patterns and may recommend further testing if needed.
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.
Clinical Significance: This test helps diagnose conditions like Cushing’s syndrome (elevated cortisol) or adrenal insufficiency (inadequate cortisol response), guiding treatment decisions such as hormone therapy or medication adjustments.
Short name
Cortisol Stim Test
Frequently asked questions
Will I feel any side effects from the medication?
How long will I need to fast before the test?
What should I do if I miss a scheduled blood draw?
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