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Fructosamine (Serum)

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

This test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 weeks by tracking glycated proteins in your serum.

Quick summary

["Fructosamine helps monitor long-term blood sugar control in people with diabetes or prediabetes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11900-8
Short code
GA from BPD.Doubilet93
Synonyms
GA from BPD.Doubilet93
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-estimated-from-bpd-doubilet
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

What Is Fructosamine Used For?

Fructosamine is primarily used to assess how well your blood sugar has been controlled over time, especially in people with diabetes who may not have daily blood sugar tests. Unlike hemoglobin A1c, it reflects recent changes in blood sugar levels, making it useful for evaluating treatment adjustments or detecting complications early.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion is then tested using an immunoassay method to measure glycated proteins. Results are reported in arbitrary units concentration (µmol/L).

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order fructosamine if you have diabetes and want to track blood sugar trends beyond daily readings. It’s also useful for monitoring response to treatment or identifying issues with blood sugar management.

What Does a Result Mean?

Interpretation depends on your clinical context, but fructosamine levels can indicate whether your blood sugar has been consistently high or low over time. Your provider will compare results with your symptoms, other tests, and treatment plan.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Fructosamine

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your diabetes management plan. Typically, fructosamine may be checked every few months alongside other tests like hemoglobin A1c, but your provider will determine the best schedule for you.
Can I prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid eating or drinking anything (except water) for 8–12 hours before the blood draw to ensure accurate results.
Will the results affect my diabetes treatment?
Yes, fructosamine results help your healthcare team adjust medications, lifestyle changes, or monitoring strategies to improve blood sugar control. Always discuss findings with your provider before making changes.
  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