Skip to content

Glucose (measured as a 3-hour postprandial value in a 24-hour urine collection)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your urine over a 24-hour period after eating, specifically tracking levels 3 hours after meals.

Quick summary

["Helps assess how well your body manages blood sugar over time in urine samples."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26540-5
Short code
Glucose 3h p Glc Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose 3h p Glc Ur-mCnc
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
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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have concerns about diabetes, kidney function, or how your body processes glucose. It can also help monitor long-term blood sugar control in people with diabetes or prediabetes.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period. Typically, you’ll start the collection right after waking up and continue until you wake up the next morning. Drink plenty of fluids but avoid sugary drinks or foods that might affect the results.

What Happens During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond the urine collection. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure glucose levels throughout the day.

What the Results Mean

The results help determine if your body is handling glucose efficiently. High levels might suggest diabetes or kidney issues, while normal levels indicate good metabolic control.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

None

Frequently asked questions

How is this test different from a standard blood glucose test?
This test measures glucose in urine over 24 hours, not in blood, and focuses on post-meal levels specifically at 3 hours. It provides a broader picture of how your body handles sugar throughout the day.
Can I take medications before the urine collection?
Yes, but avoid sugary medications or supplements unless approved by your provider. Stick to your usual medications unless instructed otherwise.
Why do I need to collect urine for 24 hours?
A 24-hour urine collection gives a comprehensive view of glucose metabolism, capturing levels throughout the day and after meals, which is more informative than a single blood or urine sample.
  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