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Fructosamine (Serum)

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

This test measures the level of fructosamine in your blood, which reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three weeks. It helps assess long-term glucose control, particularly useful in people with diabetes who may not have a hemoglobin A1c test available.

Quick summary

["Fructosamine helps track how well your blood sugar has been managed over time."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99034-1
Short code
dfrA1 Islt/Spm Ql
Synonyms
dfrA1 Islt/Spm Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order a fructosamine test if you have diabetes and need to monitor your blood sugar control over a longer period than what hemoglobin A1c provides. It can also be used to evaluate glycemic control in patients with chronic kidney disease or other conditions affecting red blood cell lifespan.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure fructosamine levels.

What Do Results Mean?

Fructosamine results are not typically provided with specific numeric ranges in all settings, as they vary by lab and patient factors. Your results will be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health and medical history.

What Are Possible Causes of Abnormal Results?

Elevated fructosamine levels may indicate poor blood sugar control, often seen in uncontrolled diabetes. Lower levels might suggest improved glycemic control or certain medications affecting glucose metabolism.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fructosamine Blood Test

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your healthcare provider’s recommendations. For diabetes management, it may be ordered alongside other tests like hemoglobin A1c, depending on your specific needs and how your blood sugar is controlled.
What do I need to do before the test?
No special preparation is usually required. However, inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking, especially those that might affect blood sugar levels, such as insulin or oral diabetes medications.
Can I drink or eat before the test?
You can eat and drink as usual before the test unless instructed otherwise by your provider. Fasting is not required for this test.
  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