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Fructosamine (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures a type of protein linked to blood sugar levels over the past few weeks, helping assess long-term glucose control.

Quick summary

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

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33805-3
Short code
Fructosamine SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Fructosamine SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
200
Ref high
285
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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?

Doctors may order a fructosamine test if you have diabetes or prediabetes and want to check how consistently your blood sugar has stayed within target ranges over the past 2–3 weeks. It’s useful for monitoring long-term glucose control when hemoglobin A1c results may not be available or are unclear.

What Does This Test Tell You?

Fructosamine reflects average blood sugar levels over a shorter period than hemoglobin A1c, often giving a clearer picture of recent glucose trends. Higher levels may indicate periods of elevated blood sugar, while lower levels may suggest better control.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is processed to measure the concentration of fructosamine, a protein formed when blood sugar reacts with certain proteins over time.

What Are Common Results?

Results are reported as a mass concentration in serum but are not paired with specific reference ranges in this summary. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and other tests.

Reference range

NCBI: Fructosamine 200-285 µmol/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fructosamine

Frequently asked questions

How often should I expect this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your diabetes management plan. Typically, it may be done alongside other glucose-related tests like fasting blood sugar or hemoglobin A1c.
Does this test require fasting?
No fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally before the blood draw.
What could affect my results?
Factors like recent blood sugar spikes, certain medications (e.g., steroids), or liver disease may influence fructosamine levels. Always discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider before the 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy