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Fructosamine (Serum)

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

This test measures the average blood sugar level over the past two to three weeks by tracking glycated proteins in your serum. It helps assess how well your blood sugar has been controlled during this time.

Quick summary

["Fructosamine reflects your blood sugar management over weeks, not just immediate readings like glucose tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11926-3
Short code
GA from FL.Mercer87
Synonyms
GA from FL.Mercer87
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-mercer
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 or prediabetes and need to monitor long-term blood sugar control. It’s particularly useful for people with kidney disease or those who take insulin, as kidney function can affect traditional hemoglobin A1c measurements.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum portion of your blood is then analyzed to measure fructosamine levels using an immunoassay method.

What does the result mean?

Fructosamine results are not expressed in a standard numeric range, as they vary by lab and patient factors. Instead, they’re compared to your baseline or trends over time to assess glycemic control. High levels may indicate poor blood sugar management, while lower levels could suggest better control.

What can affect this test?

Several factors may influence fructosamine levels, including recent blood sugar fluctuations, certain medications (like steroids or insulin), liver disease, or severe infections. Avoiding stress or illness before testing can help ensure accurate results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fructosamine

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor ask for this test?
If you have diabetes or are at risk, fructosamine provides a snapshot of your blood sugar trends over weeks, helping your doctor adjust treatments like insulin or oral medications to improve long-term health.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your condition. Typically, it’s done alongside other tests like hemoglobin A1c, but may be recommended more often if you have unstable blood sugar or kidney issues.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No fasting is required for a fructosamine test. However, avoid alcohol or medications that affect blood sugar for 24 hours before testing, as they may influence 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