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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 serum, which helps assess how your body produces and uses insulin for energy.

Quick summary

["Insulin levels help diagnose or monitor conditions like diabetes or insulin resistance."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55383-4
Short code
Insulin 10M p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 10M p chal SerPl-sCnc
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for diabetes, insulin resistance, or other hormonal imbalances. It can also help evaluate symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or unusual thirst/urination.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed for insulin concentration using a sensitive immunoassay method.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before testing if your provider specifies it. Wear comfortable clothing if you’re having an arm vein accessed.

What Are Common Results?

Results are reported as a concentration value (e.g., micrograms per liter). Your provider will compare these results to your medical history and symptoms to determine if further action is needed.

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 abnormal insulin levels?
Abnormal insulin levels can result from conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, kidney disease, or certain medications. Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress also play a role.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will contact you once they’re ready for discussion.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required, avoid food and liquids (except water) for 8–12 hours before the test. If no fasting is needed, you can eat and drink normally, but check with your provider first.
  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