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Hormone Index Based on Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) Blood Sample

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

This test measures several hormones related to glucose metabolism after you drink a sugary liquid. It helps assess how your body responds to glucose, which can indicate diabetes risk or other metabolic conditions.

Quick summary

["Evaluates how your body manages blood sugar and hormone levels after consuming glucose."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50984-4
Short code
Horowitz index BldA+IhG-Rto
Synonyms
Horowitz index BldA+IhG-Rto
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, extreme thirst, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes. It’s also used to screen for prediabetes, diabetes, or hormonal imbalances that affect blood sugar control.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll fast for 8–12 hours before drinking a sugary solution (typically 75–100 grams of glucose). Blood samples are taken at intervals to measure hormone levels, including insulin, glucagon, and cortisol, among others.

How the Test Works

After drinking the glucose solution, your body releases hormones to regulate blood sugar. Blood is drawn at specific times to measure these hormones, helping doctors analyze how your endocrine system responds to glucose.

Common Hormones Measured

This test often includes measurements of insulin, glucagon, cortisol, and other related hormones that influence blood sugar levels. These help identify patterns in how your body processes glucose over time.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

OGTT Hormone Profile (Blood)

Frequently asked questions

What does a 'Hormone Index' mean in this test?
The term ‘index’ refers to a composite analysis combining multiple hormone measurements to assess overall metabolic function. It’s not a single value but a pattern of hormone responses after glucose intake.
Will fasting before the test affect my results?
Yes, fasting is critical because it ensures your body is in a baseline state before glucose is introduced. Skipping fasting may lead to inaccurate results.
Can I take medications before this test?
Ask your doctor about any medications to hold or adjust before the test, especially those affecting blood sugar or hormones. Some may need temporary suspension.
  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