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Insulin, Mass Concentration (Serum/Plasma)

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 your pancreas.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55490-7
Short code
Insulin 45M p Gc SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 45M p Gc 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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for insulin-related disorders, such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), insulin resistance, or to evaluate how your body responds to insulin. It can also be used in diagnosing conditions like type 1 or type 2 diabetes, especially when other tests like glucose levels are inconclusive.

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 profile. If you’re taking medications that affect blood sugar, let your provider know.

How the Test Works

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

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your overall health, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormally high or low insulin levels may indicate underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.

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

Insulin Level

Frequently asked questions

When might I need this test?
This test may be recommended if you have symptoms like unexplained weight changes, frequent hunger, fatigue, or if your doctor suspects diabetes, hypoglycemia, or another endocrine disorder.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required (e.g., for a glucose-insulin profile), avoid food and liquids except water for 8–12 hours beforehand. Follow your provider’s specific instructions.
  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