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C-peptide measured after a meal via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in serum

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

This test evaluates how your body produces C-peptide, a marker of insulin secretion, after eating.

Quick summary

["Helps assess pancreatic function and insulin production post-meal."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95084-0
Short code
C peptide 2h p meal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
C peptide 2h p meal SerPl-mCnc
Category
coagulation
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have diabetes, insulin-related concerns, or suspected pancreatic issues. It helps track how your pancreas responds to food intake.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely fast for a short period before the test, then eat a meal. Blood will be drawn shortly afterward to measure C-peptide levels in your serum.

How the Test Works

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separates and measures C-peptide, a byproduct of insulin production, in your blood after eating.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your pancreas produces enough insulin after meals, which is important for managing diabetes or other metabolic conditions.

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: This test is particularly useful for diagnosing or monitoring conditions like diabetes, insulinoma, or pancreatic dysfunction by assessing postprandial (meal-related) insulin secretion.

Short name

Meal-Specific C-Peptide (HPLC Serum)

Frequently asked questions

Will I need to prepare for this test?
Yes, follow fasting and meal timing instructions provided by your healthcare team to ensure accurate results.
How long will I need to wait for my results?
Results may take several days to a week, depending on lab processing times. Your provider will discuss them with you.
Can I take my usual medications before this test?
Ask your provider about any medications to hold or adjust before testing, as some may affect C-peptide levels.
  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