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Fructosamine (Serum) – Glycated Protein Level

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

This test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 weeks by detecting glycated proteins in your serum. It helps assess long-term glucose control, especially useful for people with diabetes who may not have recent hemoglobin A1c results.

Quick summary

["Fructosamine reflects your blood sugar trends over weeks, complementing short-term glucose monitoring."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11923-0
Short code
GA from FL.Jeanty84
Synonyms
GA from FL.Jeanty84
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-fl-jeanty
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 Matters for You

Fructosamine is particularly useful for individuals who have frequent blood sugar fluctuations or who cannot have a hemoglobin A1c test (e.g., due to recent blood transfusions or pregnancy). Unlike hemoglobin A1c, which reflects average glucose over 3 months, fructosamine gives a snapshot of recent glucose exposure.

How It’s Done

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The serum portion is tested using an immunoassay method to measure glycated proteins. Results are reported in arbitrary units of concentration.

What the Results Mean

Higher fructosamine levels may indicate consistently elevated blood sugar, while lower levels suggest better control. However, interpretation depends on your clinical context, such as your diabetes management plan.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Fructosamine levels can be affected by recent blood transfusions, severe illness, or medications that alter protein synthesis. Chronic kidney disease or liver disease may also influence results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Fructosamine

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Fructosamine is typically ordered every 3–6 months for people with diabetes, depending on your doctor’s recommendations. It’s often used alongside hemoglobin A1c to monitor glucose trends over different timeframes.
What does a high fructosamine level mean?
A high fructosamine level suggests your blood sugar has been consistently higher than desired over the past few weeks. Your healthcare provider may adjust your diabetes treatment plan, such as insulin or oral medications, based on these results.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No fasting is required for this test. However, inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or recent illnesses that could affect your results.
  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