Insulin concentration in serum/plasma (24-hour profile)
This test measures insulin levels over a 24-hour period using blood samples drawn at specific times to assess how your body produces and responds to insulin.
["Helps evaluate insulin secretion and diabetes management over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72604-2
- Short code
- Insulin 4.5h p 75 g Glc PO SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Insulin 4.5h p 75 g Glc PO SerPl-aCnc
- Category
- glucose
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2.6
- Ref high
- 24.9
- Fasting
- true
- 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 to diagnose or monitor conditions like type 1 or type 2 diabetes, insulinoma (a rare tumor that causes excessive insulin), or to check how well insulin therapy is working. It can also help identify irregular insulin patterns that might suggest other metabolic issues.
How the Test Works
Blood samples are collected at multiple times (typically every 4 hours) over 24 hours. Each sample is analyzed for insulin concentration using an immunoassay method, which detects insulin molecules in your blood.
Sample Collection Process
You’ll need to stay at a clinic or hospital for the full 24 hours. Your doctor will explain the exact timing and how to prepare, including fasting requirements. Avoid eating or drinking anything except water before the first draw.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may be asked to avoid certain medications, supplements, or foods that could affect insulin levels. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
Reference range
Fasting: 2.6-24.9 μIU/mLN/A
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.
Abnormal insulin patterns can indicate diabetes, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), or other endocrine disorders. High insulin levels may suggest insulin resistance or tumors, while low levels could signal poor insulin production or diabetes.
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to stay for the test?
What does my insulin profile mean?
Can I eat or drink anything besides water before the first blood draw?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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