Glucose in Serum/Plasma (2-Hour Postprandial)
This test measures your blood sugar level two hours after eating. It helps assess how your body processes glucose, especially important for managing diabetes or evaluating glucose tolerance.
["This test helps doctors check how well your body handles sugar after eating."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40279-2
- Short code
- Glucose 2h p Lac PO SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucose 2h p Lac PO SerPl-sCnc
- 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 doctor may order a 2-hour postprandial glucose test if they suspect diabetes, prediabetes, or other conditions affecting blood sugar control. It’s also used to monitor existing diabetes management or diagnose glucose intolerance.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll typically fast overnight (usually 8–12 hours) before this test. On the day of the test, you’ll eat a standard meal, and blood will be drawn two hours later. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to discuss with your healthcare provider.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
After the Test
You can resume your normal activities immediately. If you had a meal, wait until two hours before drawing blood. Check with your doctor about any follow-up steps, such as reporting results or scheduling additional tests.
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.
Abnormally high or low 2-hour postprandial glucose levels can indicate diabetes, insulin resistance, or other metabolic disorders. Results help guide treatment plans, such as medication adjustments or lifestyle changes, to better manage blood sugar over time.
Short name
2-Hour Post-Meal Blood Sugar
Frequently asked questions
What does a high 2-hour glucose level mean?
No, you must follow your doctor’s instructions for fasting before the test. Eating before the scheduled blood draw can affect accuracy. Always confirm with your healthcare provider about the exact timing.
How often should I get 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