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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, reflecting how your body has managed glucose levels recently.

Quick summary

["Helps assess long-term blood sugar control beyond a single glucose reading."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33127-2
Short code
GA from SL.Tokyo89
Synonyms
GA from SL.Tokyo89
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-spine-length-tokyo
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 how well your blood sugar is controlled over time. It can also be used to check for complications related to chronic high blood sugar, such as nerve or blood vessel damage.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure the level of glycated proteins.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are not typically provided as a single reference range since they depend on individual health and glucose management. Higher levels may indicate poor blood sugar control, while lower levels may suggest consistently low glucose levels.

What Are Possible Causes of Abnormal Results?

Elevated fructosamine levels may be due to poorly controlled diabetes, stress, illness, or certain medications. Lower levels could be linked to very low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or conditions affecting protein synthesis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fructosamine Level

Frequently asked questions

What factors might affect my test results?
Several factors can influence fructosamine levels, including recent blood sugar fluctuations, medications (like insulin or oral diabetes drugs), infections, or stress. If you’ve had recent changes in diet, illness, or medications, let your provider know.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine the frequency based on your health needs. Typically, fructosamine tests are done alongside other glucose monitoring methods, such as HbA1c, to provide a full picture of your blood sugar management.
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 test if instructed. Follow your provider’s specific instructions for optimal 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