Glucose, Postprandial (2-hour) in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood after you’ve eaten, specifically two hours post-meal. It helps assess how your body processes carbohydrates.
["This test helps check blood sugar control after eating, useful for monitoring conditions like diabetes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26780-7
- Short code
- Glucose 2h p Lac PO SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucose 2h p Lac PO SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- glucose
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- CPT
- 82947
- SNOMED
- 260395008
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you have diabetes or are at risk of developing it. It can also be used to evaluate how well your body responds to food, especially if you have symptoms like unexplained weight changes, frequent thirst, or fatigue.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely fast for 8–12 hours before the test, but this specific test does **not** require fasting. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, inform your provider.
During the Test
A small needle will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to general reference ranges, but your provider will interpret them in the context of your health. High levels may indicate poor glucose tolerance, while very low levels could signal hypoglycemia or other issues.
Reference range
Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A
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.
Elevated postprandial glucose levels can signal diabetes or insulin resistance. Repeatedly high readings may prompt further testing, such as an oral glucose tolerance test. Low levels may require medical review to rule out conditions like adrenal insufficiency or severe dehydration.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Will this test affect my diabetes management?
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