Glucose, Insulin, and C-peptide levels measured in a triple bolus (fasting and post-challenge) serum/plasma sample
This test evaluates how your body responds to glucose and insulin over time, often used to assess diabetes management or insulin sensitivity.
["Helps doctors check how well your body processes sugar and insulin during different phases of glucose intake."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40337-8
- Short code
- GH 45M p Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH 45M p Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have diabetes, are at risk for diabetes, or if you’re being evaluated for conditions like prediabetes or insulin resistance. It helps track how your body handles glucose and insulin during fasting and after consuming a controlled sugar dose.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll fast for 8–12 hours before the test. Blood samples will be taken at three points: before eating (fasting), after a small sugar drink, and again after a set time (usually 1–2 hours later). No special preparation is needed beyond fasting.
What the Test Measures
The test measures three key substances: glucose (blood sugar), insulin (a hormone that regulates sugar), and C-peptide (a marker of your own insulin production). These are checked at three time points to see how your body responds to sugar.
How Results Are Used
Results help determine if your diabetes is well-controlled, if insulin resistance is present, or if you need adjustments to your diabetes management plan, such as medication or diet.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal results may indicate diabetes, insulin resistance, or other metabolic disorders. High glucose levels after eating could signal poor insulin function, while low insulin levels might suggest issues with insulin production or sensitivity. This test is critical for tailoring treatment to your specific needs.
Short name
Triple Bolus Glucose/Insulin Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does a triple bolus test tell me about my diabetes?
How long will I need to fast before this test?
Will I feel different after the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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