Glucagon, Serum (Quantitative)
This test measures the amount of glucagon, a hormone produced by special cells in your pancreas, in your blood. Glucagon helps regulate blood sugar levels by prompting your liver to release glucose.
["Glucagon helps control how your body uses sugar, and low or high levels may signal underlying health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95094-9
- Short code
- Glucagon 2.5h p meal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucagon 2.5h p meal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), unexplained high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), or conditions such as diabetes, pancreatic issues, or gastrointestinal disorders. It may also be used to diagnose or monitor rare metabolic disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if instructed by your healthcare provider. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a sensitive immunoassay method to measure glucagon concentration.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range specific to your lab, but they don’t provide absolute values for normal or abnormal levels. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormally low glucagon levels may indicate conditions like severe liver disease, pancreatic tumors, or certain genetic disorders. High levels could suggest pancreatic tumors, diabetes, or other metabolic or endocrine disorders. Always discuss results with your doctor for personalized guidance.
Short name
Glucagon Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes glucagon levels to be tested?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this 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