Cortisol level measured after insulin-induced stress via intravenous push, drawn from serum/plasma
This test checks how your body responds to a sudden drop in blood sugar by measuring cortisol levels after you receive insulin through an IV. It helps assess your adrenal gland function and how well your body manages stress responses.
["This test helps diagnose adrenal insufficiency or cortisol resistance during extreme stress events."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100998-4
- Short code
- Cortisol post dose insulin IV pnl SerPl
- Synonyms
- Cortisol post dose insulin IV pnl SerPl
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 6.2
- Ref high
- 19.4
- Critical range
- 3 N/A – 50 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82533
- SNOMED
- 34350002
- 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 (Addison’s disease), Cushing’s syndrome, or pituitary disorders that affect cortisol production. It’s often used during a stress test to evaluate how your body handles sudden changes in blood sugar.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll receive insulin through an IV in a hospital or clinic setting. Blood will be drawn shortly after to measure cortisol levels. Avoid caffeine or alcohol before the test as it may affect results.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare provider will insert an IV line, then administer insulin. Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm or hand at a set time after insulin administration to check cortisol levels in your serum or plasma.
What the Results Mean
Low cortisol levels after insulin administration may indicate adrenal insufficiency or poor stress response. High levels could suggest resistance to cortisol effects or other hormonal imbalances. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and other tests.
Reference range
Morning: 6.2-19.4 μg/dLN/A
Typically collected in the morning (8-10 AM). Inform your provider if taking steroid medications.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Post-dose cortisol (IVP)
Frequently asked questions
What symptoms might trigger this test?
How long will I need to wait for results?
Can I eat or drink before 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