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Insulin, Serum Concentration (Quantitative)

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

This test measures the amount of insulin in your blood, a hormone produced by your pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Quick summary

["Insulin helps control how your body uses sugar for energy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
32360-0
Short code
Insulin 10M p chal SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 10M p chal SerPl-aCnc
Category
hormone
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
2.6
Ref high
24.9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83525
SNOMED
413618004
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 Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of high or low blood sugar, such as excessive thirst, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes. It may also be used to diagnose conditions like diabetes, hypoglycemia, or insulin resistance, or to monitor treatment progress.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a glucose tolerance or metabolic evaluation. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect insulin levels.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your overall health, symptoms, and medical history. Abnormally high or low insulin levels may signal underlying conditions that require further evaluation.

Reference range

Fasting: 2.6-24.9 μIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Insulin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes insulin levels to vary?
Insulin levels can fluctuate due to diet (especially sugar intake), physical activity, stress, medications (like insulin or diabetes drugs), or certain medical conditions. Hormonal imbalances or liver/pancreatic issues may also affect results.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I take anything before my test?
If fasting is required, avoid eating or drinking anything except water for the specified period. If no fasting is needed, follow your doctor’s instructions for timing.
  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