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Insulin with 24-Hour Profile (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures your insulin levels over a 24-hour period to help assess how your body regulates blood sugar.

Quick summary

["Understanding your insulin levels throughout the day can help identify diabetes or insulin sensitivity issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56789-1
Short code
Insulin 32h p chal SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 32h 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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of diabetes, such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight changes. It may also be used to evaluate how well your body responds to insulin or to monitor conditions like prediabetes or insulin resistance.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a fasting profile. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as they may affect results.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process usually takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your insulin levels are too high or too low, which can indicate diabetes, insulin resistance, or other metabolic conditions. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health.

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

Frequently asked questions

Will I need to fast for this test?
Sometimes yes—your doctor may ask you to fast for 8–12 hours before drawing blood, especially if this is part of a broader metabolic profile. Always follow their instructions to ensure accurate results.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to discuss them.
Can I take my insulin medication before this test?
Yes, but inform your doctor beforehand. If you’re on insulin or other diabetes medications, they may adjust your dose afterward based on the test 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