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Insulin, 15-Minute Postprandial (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures your insulin levels 15 minutes after eating to help assess how your body responds to glucose.

Quick summary

["Helps evaluate how well your pancreas produces insulin after meals."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12758-9
Short code
Insulin 15M pre chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 15M pre chal SerPl-mCnc
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

What This Test Measures

Insulin is a hormone produced by your pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels. After you eat, your body releases insulin to manage glucose uptake. This test specifically looks at insulin levels shortly after a meal to check for proper function.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of diabetes, insulin resistance, or other metabolic conditions. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like reactive hypoglycemia or prediabetes.

Preparation

You may need to fast for a few hours before the test, depending on your doctor’s instructions. Follow any specific instructions they provide, such as avoiding certain foods or medications.

What to Expect

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.

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.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Insulin Post-Meal Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
No, you’ll need to fast for a specified period before the test, as instructed by your healthcare provider. Avoiding food and drink (except water) ensures accurate results.
Is there any discomfort associated with this blood draw?
The blood draw itself may cause a slight pinch, but most people tolerate it well. You might experience minor bruising or soreness at the site, but this usually fades quickly.
  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