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Insulin, Serum (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, in your blood serum. It helps assess how well your body is managing blood sugar levels.

Quick summary

["Insulin levels help diagnose and monitor diabetes and other conditions affecting blood sugar."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56690-1
Short code
Insulin 16h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 16h p 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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for diabetes, insulin resistance, or other metabolic disorders. It’s also used to evaluate symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or frequent urination that might relate to blood sugar issues.

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 study. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

How the Test Works

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure insulin concentration.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your overall health, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hyperinsulinemia, or diabetes.

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

Serum Insulin

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. If you have diabetes, your provider may recommend testing every few months to monitor progress with treatment. Others may only need it if symptoms or risk factors suggest it’s needed.
What does a high or low insulin level mean?
High insulin levels might signal insulin resistance, tumors producing excess insulin, or other metabolic issues. Low levels could indicate diabetes, pancreatic problems, or medications affecting insulin production.
Can diet or exercise affect insulin test results?
Yes. Fasting before the test ensures accurate results, but eating or exercising shortly before can influence insulin levels. Follow your provider’s instructions to avoid confusion in results.
  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