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Insulin, 24-Hour Urinary Excretion (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures how much insulin your body naturally produces and excretes over a full day through your urine.

Quick summary

["Understanding your insulin production helps assess diabetes management and kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55384-2
Short code
Insulin 3M p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 3M 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 This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have diabetes, suspected insulin resistance, or unexplained weight changes. It helps evaluate how well your body regulates insulin and whether your kidneys are processing it correctly.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically collect a 24-hour urine sample starting after an overnight fast. Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely to ensure accurate results, including timing and storage.

How the Test Works

The collected urine is analyzed to measure insulin levels in your body’s waste products. Specialized lab techniques detect insulin mass concentration over the full day.

What the Results Mean

Results help identify patterns in insulin excretion, which can indicate diabetes severity, insulin sensitivity, or kidney function. Abnormal findings may prompt further testing or adjustments to treatment.

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.

Abnormally high or low insulin excretion may signal diabetes, insulinoma (a rare tumor), or kidney issues. This test supports diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring long-term metabolic health.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1–2 weeks after the lab processes your sample, depending on lab workload.
Can I eat or drink anything before collecting my urine sample?
Yes, but follow your doctor’s specific instructions. Typically, you’ll avoid special diets or medications unless directed otherwise, and you may need to avoid certain foods or fluids that could interfere with the test.
Is there any preparation needed besides collecting urine over 24 hours?
Beyond urine collection, no additional preparation is needed. However, ensure you’re hydrated and report any medications or supplements you’re taking to your doctor.
  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