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Insulin, Serum or Plasma Concentration (Quantitative)

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

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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56692-7
Short code
Insulin 1D p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 1D 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 can also help evaluate symptoms like unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or frequent urination.

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-insulin study. Bring any medications you’re currently taking.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure insulin concentration.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted based on your clinical context, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hyperinsulinemia (excess insulin), 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.

Clinical Significance: Insulin levels are critical for diagnosing and managing diabetes, insulin resistance, and other endocrine disorders. High or low levels can signal underlying metabolic issues requiring medical attention.

Short name

Insulin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal insulin levels?
Abnormal insulin levels can result from conditions like diabetes (high insulin resistance or excess insulin), pancreatic disorders, or medications that affect blood sugar. Symptoms may include fatigue, vision changes, or unexplained weight fluctuations.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow up with your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required (e.g., for glucose-insulin studies), avoid food and liquids except water for 8–12 hours beforehand. Otherwise, standard dietary habits are fine unless instructed otherwise.
  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