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Glucose (2-hour postprandial plasma)

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

This test measures your blood sugar level two hours after eating to help diagnose or monitor conditions like diabetes.

Quick summary

["Assesses how your body handles glucose after eating."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6750-4
Short code
Glucose 2h p 50 g Lac PO Ur Ql Strip
Synonyms
Glucose 2h p 50 g Lac PO Ur Ql Strip
Category
glucose
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
70
Ref high
100
Critical range
50 N/A – 400 N/A
Fasting
true
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
test-strip
CPT
82947
SNOMED
260395008
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check how well your body controls blood sugar, especially if you have symptoms of diabetes or prediabetes. It’s also used during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) or if you have other health conditions that affect blood sugar.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely fast overnight (usually 8–12 hours) before the test. On the day of the test, you’ll eat a standard meal, and blood will be drawn two hours later to check your glucose level.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your blood is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The lab uses an enzymatic method to measure glucose concentration in your plasma.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your blood sugar is consistently high or low after meals, which can indicate diabetes or other metabolic issues. Your provider will discuss these results with you.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

Fasting for 8-12 hours required. Water is permitted. Avoid chewing gum and smoking before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for diagnosing diabetes, especially type 2 diabetes, and monitoring long-term blood sugar control. Abnormally high levels may signal undiagnosed diabetes or poor management of existing conditions.

Short name

2-Hour Glucose Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a normal result mean?
A normal result does not mean your blood sugar is always within a healthy range. It only reflects your glucose level at the time of testing. Your provider will use multiple tests over time to assess overall blood sugar control.
Can I eat before the test?
No, you must fast for the required period before eating the standard meal. Follow your provider’s instructions precisely to get accurate results.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your health status, medical history, and treatment plan. Regular follow-ups may be recommended if you have diabetes or related conditions.
  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